Silly Birth Control Question
Find a Conversation
Silly Birth Control Question
| Wed, 04-07-2004 - 2:42pm |
For the past year I've had very irregular periods. I am thinking about being put on birth control, something I've never had before in my life. ( I am 26 years old) Is it my understanding that before I can actually start taking these pills that I have to wait until my period actually decides to show up or is there something else I can do? My family dr. suggested ortho-trycyclen lo to help regulate me. I am just a bit confused as to what steps to take to actually get my period to show up. Am I just supposed to wait around until it shows up and then start the cycle of pills? I know that I am not currently pregnant, though I would love to start trying by the end of the year. Any suggestions or help with my silly birth control question would be greatly appreciated.

One reason for starting with your period is to know that you're not pregnant, and get the hormones into your system before you ovulate, so that it prevents ovulation that first month.
The other reason is that when you have your period your own hormones are at a pretty low level in your body, so adding artificial ones at that point should be the least uncomfortable. If you add extra hormones mid-cycle, you could be more uncomfortable.
If you start without a period, I think backup should be used for the entire first month, in case you have already ovulated. Then you know you are protected.
If you are wanting to TTC in a few months, are you sure hormonal birth control is what you want to use right now?
Waiting to start your pills until your period starts serves two purposes. Your period is a sign that you aren’t pg and beginning early in your cycle usually makes the transition onto artificial hormones easier. You can take a blood test to be certain you’re not pg or your doc might write you an Rx without the test. You can ask what s/he is willing to do. If you or your doc wants a period first s/he can give you an Rx for something to force one. These are things you will want to discuss and decide on with your doctor.
If you do start hormonal contraceptives and intend to use them for contraception as well as regulating your cycles then be sure to use back-up for at least the first 7 days of correct pill use. This board recommends that back-up be used for the entire first pack as your flow may be different than it was when cycling naturally and if you are late or miss pills while learning to take your pills correctly you will know that you are still protected and won’t be concerned about being pg. By the way, there are no silly questions about birth control.
Good luck
Jill