Starting birth control, particularly birth control pills, involves choosing a day to take your first pill, often based on your menstrual cycle.
Getting started with birth control typically involves consulting a healthcare provider to discuss your options and get a prescription. Once you have your birth control method, the process of starting depends on the specific type you choose. For common methods like the pill, there are standard ways to begin taking it.
Starting Birth Control Pills
The most common way people start hormonal birth control, specifically the pill, is by following one of two methods based on their menstrual cycle. These methods help ensure the pill becomes effective as quickly as possible in preventing pregnancy.
Here are the two primary ways to start taking birth control pills, incorporating information from the provided reference:
- Start on the First Day of Your Period: You can take your first pill on the first day of your period. If you choose this method, the pill is typically effective immediately, and you don't need to use a backup birth control method.
- Start on the Sunday After Your Period Starts: Alternatively, you can take your first pill on the Sunday after your period starts. If you do this, you need to use another birth control method (like a condom, diaphragm, or sponge) for the next 7 days to prevent pregnancy.
Why These Starting Methods?
Starting on the first day of your period aligns the pill's hormones with your body's natural cycle, offering protection right away. Starting on the first Sunday after your period provides a consistent start day each week, which can make remembering to take the pill easier, but requires temporary backup protection.
Key Considerations When Starting
- Consult Your Doctor: Always talk to a healthcare provider before starting any new birth control method. They can help you choose the best method for your health and lifestyle and provide specific instructions.
- Read the Patient Information: The packaging for your birth control pills will include detailed instructions on when and how to start, as well as what to do if you miss a pill. Read this information carefully.
- Consistency is Key: For birth control pills to be effective, it's crucial to take them at the same time every day, regardless of the starting method you choose.
Starting Methods Comparison
Here's a simple comparison of the two common starting methods for birth control pills:
| Starting Method | When to Start | Need for Backup Protection? |
|---|---|---|
| First Day Start | On the first day of your menstrual period | Generally no backup needed |
| Sunday After Period Start | On the first Sunday after your period starts | Yes, use backup for the first 7 days |
Choosing how to start depends on your preference for immediate protection versus a consistent weekly start day. Always follow the specific instructions provided with your birth control and by your healthcare provider.
