Can you read the instructions on your pill pack? Most of the hormonal contraception says that if you miss 3 or more pills in-a-row, you must throw away this pack, wait for your period to begin, then start a NEW pack. There is no way for you to "double up" on the missed pills enough for the pill to be effective until you begin your period.
When you miss 1 or 2 pills, it is recommended that you "double up" on the missed pills, then use a backup method of birth control (condom) for seven days.
It sounds as though this IS a new pill pack, you are just starting it five days late, is that correct? You may want to call your doctor's office to verify if you can begin taking the pill at anytime during your cycle, but it usually will not be as effective.
To answer your question directly: each individual pill is "processed" in your body quickly, but this type of birth control only works when taken consistently every day---it is necessary to keep a steady dose of hormones in your body to work effectively at preventing pregnancy. For the pill to reach its maximum effectiveness at 99%, it must be taken for at least 7-14 days consecutively, when beginning it at the appropriate time in your cycle (after your period). If you are starting the pill 5 days later in your cycle, it may not be at its utmost effectiveness rate until AFTER your next period.
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Can you read the instructions on your pill pack? Most of the hormonal contraception says that if you miss 3 or more pills in-a-row, you must throw away this pack, wait for your period to begin, then start a NEW pack. There is no way for you to "double up" on the missed pills enough for the pill to be effective until you begin your period.
When you miss 1 or 2 pills, it is recommended that you "double up" on the missed pills, then use a backup method of birth control (condom) for seven days.
It sounds as though this IS a new pill pack, you are just starting it five days late, is that correct? You may want to call your doctor's office to verify if you can begin taking the pill at anytime during your cycle, but it usually will not be as effective.
To answer your question directly: each individual pill is "processed" in your body quickly, but this type of birth control only works when taken consistently every day---it is necessary to keep a steady dose of hormones in your body to work effectively at preventing pregnancy. For the pill to reach its maximum effectiveness at 99%, it must be taken for at least 7-14 days consecutively, when beginning it at the appropriate time in your cycle (after your period). If you are starting the pill 5 days later in your cycle, it may not be at its utmost effectiveness rate until AFTER your next period.
Are you able to use condoms for the next 3 weeks?
July 27, 2010 - 8:12pmThis Comment
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