changing pill start day on OTC

iVillage Member
Registered: 06-22-2004
changing pill start day on OTC
3
Sun, 06-27-2004 - 4:57pm
Hi,

I'm on ortho-tricyclen (first month using) and want to change my start day. What would happen if I dont finish the last couple of pills? Or should I start the new pack earlier in the placebo week? or am I just stuck?

iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Sun, 06-27-2004 - 6:48pm
Hi laninya, welcome!

You can safely change your start day by reducing the number of days in your placebo week. If you want to change the start by going longer that 7 24-hour days between active pills you will loose your protection and need to use back-up after the 7th day without hormones and until you have taken at least 7 active pills correctly.

Good luck,

      Jill

    

iVillage Member
Registered: 06-22-2004
Sun, 06-27-2004 - 9:09pm
what if I just have seven placebo days but end the pack early? what happens then?
iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Sun, 06-27-2004 - 9:33pm
Hi laninya,

I would not end the actives in a pack early and then go 7 placebo days. The pills were tested with women taking 21 actives and 7 placebos and we know the protection after 21 actives will extend over the next 7 days. We don't know how long your protection will last if fewer than 21 active pills are taken. Why take a chance? If I were you I wouldn't go there!

Good luck,

      Jill