So many questions!

iVillage Member
Registered: 06-22-2004
So many questions!
2
Tue, 06-22-2004 - 6:25pm
OK, this could be lengthy...in February I started Ortho Tri Cyclean Lo, I had breakthrough bleeding most of the time, then tried to skip my period and that led to weeks of straight bleeding...my Dr gave me a script for Loestrin Fe 1.5/30...I started this 24 days ago, so I am now in my inactive week. This month I got put on a 6 day dose of corticosteroids so I know that reduces the effectiveness. On top of all of this, I am 230lbs, so I hear that can reduce the effectiveness. Now for the questions...I am moving cross country in 3 weeks, away from my boyfriend, so needless to say, I would like to enjoy myself while here! I should be getting my period in a day or two, I was wondering if I can start my new pack as if it was a first day start rather than wait to sunday...also, how long until I'm protected, or will I be? The package inserts say with a day 1 start you don't need backup protection...that scares me! haha...but yes, the boyfriend really wants to go condomless, I just want to know my options...can someone help me out? I am just confused and curious! Thanks!
iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Tue, 06-22-2004 - 11:30pm
Hi Jezebeloca, welcome!

If you are taking a medicine that could reduce the effectiveness of your oral contraceptive pills you should use back-up all during the time you are taking the medicine and for at least the next 7 days after taking the last dose. If you have been taking your pills correctly (and haven’t been taking meds. or supplements that reduce their effectiveness) then you are protected against pregnancy for the entire 7 day placebo week. You can shorten your placebo week by any number of days and still be protected. You can not extend your placebo week past 7 24-hour days and retain your protection.

The patch, Ortho Evra, is the only combined hormonal method that I’m aware of that mentions weight as reducing the effectiveness of the method. However, if I were you I would ask your doctor or pharmacist if your weight might pose an effectiveness problem when taking Loestrin Fe 1.5/30. If they say that it does, and you don’t want to use condoms, you might consider using the sponge (Protectaid or Today) as a back-up method. If they aren’t available in your area they can be purchased on the Internet. Let us know what your doc says and what you decide, ok?

Good luck,

      Jill

    

iVillage Member
Registered: 04-25-2004
Wed, 06-23-2004 - 4:51am
Hi - If your concerned about your weight, I really wouldn't be - I was on the pill for almost 7 years, over actually and I'm plus size, too. I fluctuate between 180-200lbs, and never had any problems!! As far as I know when I took the pill, if your continuously taking it like your suppose to, you can skip your placebo pills and start your new pack right away to skip your period. If anything you might have some light bleeding, (I never did) I hope that helps! :)