stopping pill or switching pill mid-pack

iVillage Member
Registered: 05-24-2004
stopping pill or switching pill mid-pack
1
Mon, 05-24-2004 - 2:39pm
I am switching birth control pills - from Zovia 1/50 (which has been a complete nightmare) to Ortho TriCyclen which I've used in the past and loved. My question is, is it okay to stop taking the Zovia IMMEDIATELY (i'm in the middle of my pill pack). I'm assuming I'd get my period in a few days, then start the new pill pack on Sunday, following the directions for a typical "Sunday start" and using back-up birth control for a week. Or, can I slide right into my new pill pack without missing a beat. For example, take pill # 9 of old pack today, then take pill #10 in new pack tomorrow. Help! Basically, I just want to stop taking my current pill now!

thanks...

L.

iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Mon, 05-24-2004 - 4:17pm
Hi bookwoman2004

OTC has 35 mcg rather than the 50 mcg of estrogen in Zovia and a different progestin. You can stop in mid pack but it will probably confuse your body. You may bleed for only a few days or until your pill period would normally be due. You could begin taking OTC after being off Zovia for a few days and the hormones in OTC should bring any bleeding under control quickly. If you do stop mid pack I would use back-up for the entire time you are off hormones and for at least 7 days after you begin taking OTC. That way you are sure of being protected during the switch. Let us know how you’re doing, ok?

Good luck

      Jill