The pill is one of the most effective non-permanent birth control methods, according to the University of Iowa Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology. When used correctly, they are 99.6 percent effective in preventing pregnancy. Most pills work the same way but many have different variations of hormones. Not every brand of pill is ideal for every woman. When one pill causes intolerable side effects, a woman may wish to change to another birth control pill formula.
Step 1
Continue taking your current birth control pill until you begin the inactive pill week, which is the week of your period.
Step 2
Begin a pack of your new birth control pill the day after the week of your period. This is the same routine that you would have followed with your previous pill. The only difference is that you will be taking a new pill.
Step 3
Start the new birth control pill at any time during the month if you prefer. BrooksidePress.org points out that most women tolerate an immediate birth control change as long as the new pill is taken at the same time as the previous pill. This immediate change is also recommended when the original pill was a progestin-only pill, which means the woman was taking progesterone every day, even during the week of her period.
Tips and Warnings
- When obtaining a prescription for a new birth control pill, be sure to talk to your doctor about the best method of changing from your particular pill to the new one.
- Report any significant side effects that occur when changing your birth control pill, such as heavy bleeding or cramping.
