The contraceptive pill is a birth control method that's effective, reversible and easy to use. However, making even one mistake when taking the medication can diminish its effectiveness and may result in an unplanned pregnancy. Therefore, it is best that all women who are interested in using contraceptive pills as their birth control method take the time to learn how to correctly take contraceptive pills to ensure they work as intended.
Step 1
Decide when to begin taking the contraceptive pill. Typically, this will either be the first day you start bleeding from your menstrual cycle or the Sunday after you start bleeding. However, if you are sure you are not pregnant and are willing to use a backup form of birth control for the rest of the month, you can also begin as soon as you receive the pills as well.
Step 2
Decide what time of day you would like to take the pill. Remember, in order for the pill to work properly to prevent pregnancy, it needs to be taken at the exact same time of day each and every day. Therefore, choose a time that will be the most easy and convenient for you.
Step 3
Decide on a backup form of birth control. Not only will you need to use a back up method of birth control when you first begin using the contraceptive pill, but you also will need to use a backup method if you goof and forget to take a pill on time.
Step 4
Take the pill at the exact time of day each and every day until you have used all the pills in the package. Some packages of pills last for 21 days until a new package is needed, while others may last 28 days or longer. If you miss one or two pills, take the forgotten pill or pills as soon as you remember and keep taking the rest of the pills at your regularly scheduled time. If you miss more than two pills, follow the instructions for your specific brand of your birth control pill, as each brand may have different directions.
Step 5
Evaluate the month and decide if any changes are necessary. Once you finish a package of pills, you can then decide to change the time of day that you take the pill or even switch to another brand if you are having problems with side effects.
Tips and Warnings
- If you have trouble remembering to take the pill at the appropriate time, you may want to consider setting an alarm to remind you. Many cell phones or watches have this capacity. However, if you are consistently forgetting to take your pill at the appropriate time, it may be a good idea to talk to your doctor about another birth control method.
- You should discuss all the advantages, disadvantages and side effects with a doctor and obtain a prescription before taking any contraceptive pill. Remember that the contraceptive pill only prevents pregnancy and does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.
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