How soon do birth control pills work?
ANSWER
When taken as directed, birth control pills are usually effective the first month you begin taking them.
To be safe, some doctors recommend the use of another form of birth control, such as condoms and foam, during the first month. After that, you can just rely on the pill for birth control.
Reviewed by Brunilda Nazario on December 17, 2020
SOURCES:
The National Women's Health Information Center.
ContraceptionNet.
Seasonale.
News release, FDA.
SOURCES:
The National Women's Health Information Center.
ContraceptionNet.
Seasonale.
News release, FDA.
From: Birth Control Pills
THIS TOOL DOES NOT PROVIDE MEDICAL ADVICE. It is intended for general informational purposes only and does not address individual circumstances. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment and should not be relied on to make decisions about your health. Never ignore professional medical advice in seeking treatment because of something you have read on the WebMD Site. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.
This tool does not provide medical advice. See additional information.