Facebook Pixel
Q: 

contraceptive pill

By July 27, 2010 - 6:20pm
 
Rate This

I am currently using logynon contraceptive pill but recenlt ran out which means i havrn't had saturday sunday monday or tuesday's pill! how long will it take to process in my body after taking tonights pill??

Add a Comment3 Comments

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 - 8:12pm
(reply to Alison Beaver)

Thank you. you have been very helpfull.
the last pill i took was on the 23rd of july. then i missed saturday sunday monday and tuesday but then took one wednesday and thursday and now i have a new packet. on the sunday i ended up getting my period which i was not due for. does this mean i could still fall pregnant if i have taken 3 pills?

July 29, 2010 - 8:02pm
(reply to lld14)

If you had your menstrual period, and have not had unprotected sex after your period began, then you would not have a chance of being pregnant.

Just be sure to take one pill every day, and if you miss 1 or 2 pills (this can happen, as long as it is infrequent!), then be sure to "double up" AND use a condom for the next 7 days. If you miss 3 or more pills in a row, stop taking the pills, wait for your period, then begin a NEW pack. Be sure to use a condom for the next 7 days. Be sure this information is verified by your specific prescription's information!!

Basically...you have a lot of control in the situation. If you miss pills, use a condom as backup for a week. If you consistently miss pills, there may be better birth control options for you (NuvaRing, Depo Provera shot, etc).

Hope this helps!

July 29, 2010 - 9:00pm
Image CAPTCHA
Enter the characters shown in the image.
By submitting this form, you agree to EmpowHER's terms of service and privacy policy
Add a Comment

All user-generated information on this site is the opinion of its author only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions. Members and guests are responsible for their own posts and the potential consequences of those posts detailed in our Terms of Service.

Tags:

Pregnancy

Get Email Updates

Health Newsletter

Receive the latest and greatest in women's health and wellness from EmpowHER - for free!