How long should I wait????

iVillage Member
Registered: 07-24-2004
How long should I wait????
1
Sat, 07-24-2004 - 4:25pm
For those of you who are on the pill and *don't* use condoms, how long did you wait after starting the pill before not using condoms anymore?



I only ask because I'm confused... the pamphlet that came with my pills said that if you're a Sunday starter you should wait one full week. But the papers my gyno gave me (that are just general BC information, not specifically for Yasmin) said to wait a month. So which is it?



Part of me knows if I'm really that concerned I should just wait the whole month. But I really don't want to buy more condoms if it's unnecessary.



Anyway. Enough rambling.... any ideas on which guidelines I should follow?



(And YES I'm aware of the risk of STDs and such by not using condoms but I am only with one guy and he is only with me and we are both disease-free)
iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Sat, 07-24-2004 - 10:01pm
Hi alisoncabrio, welcome!

Some doctors and this board recommend using back-up for the entire first cycle on the pills as you learn to take them correctly. That way if you are late, or miss a pill you will still be protected. Also your pill period will probably be different from when you were cycling naturally: on a different schedule, and be of a different consistency and duration. So when AF shows up and is quite different you'll know you were using back-up and won't have a freak-out. If you're new to the pill it would be a good idea to read “Taking your pills correctly” in the FAQ folder at the top of the board, for tips on how to get maximum effectiveness from your pills. It never hurts to have a few extra condoms on hand in case the need arises, if you are on antibiotics for example, and you might want to let him help buy the condoms. He's enjoying sex too, right? Let us know how you’re doing, ok?

Good luck,

      Jill