How long does it take for birth control to be effective?

Question

I used to work in a pharmacy, but I don't know since I've heard so many different answers. My friend just started the pill, and her doctor told her that the pill is effective right away if taken within the first 5 days of her period or is effective within one week if not taken on the first 5 days. But I've also heard that the pill can take up to one month to be effective.

Hopefully it's effective right away...

Answer 1

It depends on what kind of birth control you are taking.

This is copied from a website:

The length of time it takes for the birth control to become completely effective as a sole contraceptive varies depending on the type of pill you use and when you start the packet of pills. You will usually need to use an alternative form of contraception (such as a condom) for at least seven days after starting, but your healthcare provider should be able to tell you exactly when the particular version of the pill you have been prescribed becomes fully effective against pregnancy. It will normally also say on the advice leaflet that comes with your pills.

It is also worth remembering that taking other medications such as antibiotics can reduce the effectiveness of the contraceptive pill, and your doctor may recommend that you use an additional form of protection during this time. Similarly, stomach upsets such as sickness and diarrhoea can affect the absorption of the pill, so again, using an additional method such as a condom can help make sure pregnancy doesn't occur.



Hope that helps.!
:)

Answer 2

Usually birth control takes about one week to become fully effective. This of course has one stipulation, you must take each pill at the same time each day. It is recommended that you use some other form of protection for that week. Obviously you want to check the package insert to be completely sure. But I am sure that no birth control is effective from you first dose on.

Answer 3

It depends how you are starting it. If you start it on the first day of your period, then it is effective immediately. If you do first Sunday or quick start, than it'll take several days for it to be effective, at max one week for it to work.
It can take upwards of three months for all the side effects to go away.
If you are taking birth control for acne or hirsutism, you need to wait for 3-6 months for full effectiveness.

Answer 4

I've always heard that you have to go through at least one full cycle before the pill is fully effective.

Answer 5

On my pack of pills the instructions say it can take up to two weeks, but my Dr told me to wait a month just to be safe.

Answer 6

I heard 3 months...

that's what my doctor told me when she put me on it.