How long til effective?

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-17-2006
How long til effective?
1
Tue, 03-21-2006 - 3:32am

Hello everyone!

I just needed some clarification as to how long birth control pills are effective. I have read in previous messages that the effectiveness takes a minimum of 7 days to be protected. Okay I understand that part. And I understand that it is recommended that the pills be taken for at least the first cycle. Does cycle mean the first pack of pills taken or the time from the first pill til you get your period? I had my second child on 01/07/06, didn't get my period til 02/14/06 and I am still awaiting my period. I haven't had sex at all so I know I am not pregnant. I started taking Errin(progestin only pill) this past Sunday and I will not be having sex until after 04/12/06(that's when I reunite with my hubby). Do you think that I will be 100% protected by 04/12/06 even though I may or may not get my period by then? Because it will be almost a full pack of the bcp taken. Gosh I hope I don't sound too paranoid.

I welcome any replies-thank you a bunch!!

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-19-2003
Tue, 03-21-2006 - 6:38am

Progestin-only pills are different than combination pills (with progestin and estrogen).

Judie Cl for Birth Control