How Long

iVillage Member
Registered: 10-26-2004
How Long
1
Mon, 11-22-2004 - 10:26am
How far into the birth control cycle do you have to wait for it to become effective? (This is if you have just started using birth control). Thanks!
iVillage Member
Registered: 09-14-2004
In reply to: mizzbritt07
Mon, 11-22-2004 - 10:40am

If you start on the first day of your period, then you are immediately protected. If you wait a few days into your period, like for a Sunday start, or start your BC when you`re not having your period, then it takes 7 days for your protection to be established.

Even so, this board recommends using protection, like a condom, for the entire first cycle so that if you`re period doesn`t come when you expect it to - and, chances are, it won`t - then you won`t have that, "Ack! Am I pregnant?!" scare.

What method/brand are you using? I hope it works out well for you! :)