QuestionHello,
I just started taking birth control pills on thanksgiving (November 27th). I chose the day 1 start and took the pill at 10PM on the 27th. However, on Thursday Dec 4th the condom broke on my boyfriend. Am I protected? I had 7 pills in me but I did not take the 8th pill on that Thursday until after the condom broke.
The heath care provider i spoke to recommended i take Plan B (even though it was 4 days after the breakage) but she said it could have some effect preventing pregnancy. I didn't want to take it (and didn't feel i needed to) and she said it may not even help me but either way am i protected??? I'm on Kariva if that matters and why would it say in the pamphlet that you don't need backup if you are a day 1 starter if it wasn't true?? should i get my period during the sugar pills even though i took plan b plus me being on the pills? please help! thank you!
AnswerDear Lauren,
With the 'First Day Start' method, you start your first pill during the first 24 hours of your period. Be aware that during this first pack of pills, you will have two periods: one during the first week of pills and one on the fourth week of pills. After this first pack, you will get a period only once a month, on the fourth week of the pack, during the placebo pills. The First Day method theorizes you will not need a back-up method of contraception after the first week likely because BCPs work by suppressing ovulation. Since you begin the pills at the very start of the cycle, the thought is that ovulation will not occur for that cycle. Without a viable egg, there is no chance of conception.
Now, taking emergency contraception WILL typically alter your menstrual cycles. Some women may experience spotting a few days after taking Plan B. At the time of expected menses, approximately 75% of women using Plan B have vaginal bleeding similar to their normal menses, 12-13% bleed more than usual, and 12% bleed less than usual. Most (87%) have their next period within a week of the expected time but some (13%) experience a delay of more than 7 days.
I would suggest you continue on as normal with the BCPs. If your period is delayed beyond 7 days of the date you expect to receive it, you should test for pregnancy to make sure you have not conceived. More than likely this will be due to the effects of the hormone in the Plan B, but you will need to make sure by testing. If you have to test, make sure to use 1st morning urine to get a concentrated sample for the most accurate results.
I hope this has helped you and answered your question. I wish you well.
Brenda
