Can you start hormonal birth control between periods?

Question

I'm starting on the Nuvaring, but I still have about 3 weeks before I have my period (they're about 35 days apart). My husband will be home from deployment very soon & I'd like it to be fully effective by then, which would mean starting it ASAP. My doctor said to wait & just use a backup method, but I'm allergic to condoms. My previous GYN told me it was okay to start a new pack of pills between periods if you have to, but I don't know if the same goes for Nuvaring. Thanks.

Answer 1

I would talk to your doctor again and follow his directions. If you start it at the wrong point in your cycle it will be all messed up. Thats why they always ask when your last period was, so they can figure out when you need to start your new BC method. They sell non-latex condoms and lamb skin condoms, if you're allergic to latex condoms. You could also use a spermicide if your ring isn't fully active.

Answer 2

You said you're allergic to condoms--it's probably the latex you're allergic to. There are polyurethane condoms, called Avanti, that should protect you without causing an allergic reaction.