How quickly does birth control work?

Question

Hi all,

​I'm officially a "secular" woman now and have started on the pill. (Giggles!) I noticed that even on day 1 of the pill that my period was very light, not that I'm complaining, but should I be worried? Does the pill work that quickly typically or do I have something to worry about?

Answer

I was told I had to use my pills for a full month when I started them before I'd be safe.

Answer

Thanks all. Does anyone know though if flow changes significantly at all when you first use the pill?

Answer

If you start the pill within five days after the start of your period, you’re protected right away. If you start at any other time during your cycle, you need to use a backup form of birth control — like a condom — for seven days.
Progestin-only pills, on the other hand, take 48 hours to become effective, regardless of where you are in your cycle when you start taking them. That means you need to use a backup birth control method for the first 48 hours.

How quickly does birth control work?

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