Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo is a brand of birth-control pill made with a low level of hormones. ThePill.com, a Web resource provided by the pill's manufacturer, points out that Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo contains only 25 mg of estrogen, which it says is lower than the amount in several other types of birth-control pills. Each week, the pill delivers a different level of progestin, another hormone used to prevent pregnancy. When taking this pill, women should follow the prescribing instructions closely to maximize its effectiveness.
Step 1
Decide whether the pill will be started on a Sunday or on the first day of the menstrual period. Planned Parenthood explains that women can begin taking the pill at any time, but it is advisable to discuss the best start time with a medical professional. A woman who is currently taking a "Sunday start" pill pack would want to continue this routine and start a new pack of Ortho Tri-Cyclen Lo seven days after the start of her period.
Step 2
Take the first white "active" tablet with water. Note the time that the pill is taken. The pill is most effective when taken at the same time each day. ThePill.com says that no more than 24 hours should pass between pills.
Step 3
Continue taking one pill a day for 21 days. A woman who misses a pill should take it as soon as she remembers and then take subsequent pills at the same time of day. If two pills are missed, take two pills that day and two the following day. If three pills are missed, continue taking one pill a day until Sunday or the start of the next week, then throw out the pill pack and start a new one. Use a backup birth control method for seven days after a missed pill.
Step 4
Take one inactive, or reminder, pill every day during the fourth week of the month. This is the week of menstruation. The inactive pills should be taken at the same time each day to help reinforce the daily routine. Missing these pills does not require any additional steps, as the ingredients are inert.
Tips and Warnings
- A backup birth control method is often recommended when the pill is first started, according to Drugs.com.
Things You'll Need
- Pill pack
- Water
