When to use backup?

iVillage Member
Registered: 08-04-2004
When to use backup?
3
Sun, 10-03-2004 - 4:29pm
I recently read a posting on here regarding Seasonale. I've been on Seasonale for over a year and have been using backup protection EACH time I started a new pack following my period. However, in a reply, someone stated that you only need to use backup when you are first starting on Seasonale. Is this true? I guess what I'm asking is - do I ever need to use backup again while taking this prescription? (unless on a conflicting one, ie. antibiotic, where backup is needed)
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iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Sun, 10-03-2004 - 6:30pm
Hi orange044, welcome!

As long as you are taking your pills correctly (see: 'Taking your pills correctly' in the FAQs) then I think you only need backup, if you are not a 'first day start' for the first 7 days of active pill use of the initial pack of any oral contraceptive. This board recommends back-up for the entire first cycle (of 21/7 regimen pills) while you are learning to take them correctly so you are protected if you make a mistake while learning to take them. You are correct, when there are conflicting meds. or supplements or you are ill then back-up is called for. No back-up is needed when starting a new pack of Seasonale, if you have been no more than 7 24-hour days between active pills.

Good luck,

      Jill

    

iVillage Member
Registered: 08-04-2004
Sun, 10-03-2004 - 7:27pm
Thanks Jill - so as long as I continue to take my pills, same time each day, and don't miss any dosages, then when I finish my period and start a new pack, I'm OK if backup is not used? It gets confusing because you often think that if you're taking the white pills for time you get period (7 days at the end of the 3 months), and that does not contain the hormone, then are you going to be safe when you start up again?
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iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Sun, 10-03-2004 - 10:19pm
>> so as long as I continue to take my pills, same time each day, and don't miss any dosages, then when I finish my period and start a new pack, I'm OK if backup is not used?

Yep, Seasonale is just like the 21/7 regimen pills in that way. As long as you are taking your pills correctly and don't go more than 7 24-hour days between active pills you should be fine. Cool huh?

Take care,

      Jill