The time it takes for birth control pills to start working depends on the type of pill and when it is started in the menstrual cycle.
- For combination pills (which contain estrogen and progestin), if started within the first 5 days of the period, they work immediately. If started at any other time, it generally takes 7 days for them to become effective.
- For progestin-only pills (also called the mini-pill), they can work immediately if started within the first 5 days of the period, but if started later, they take about 2 days to become effective.
- After childbirth or pregnancy loss, starting progestin-only pills within 5 days provides immediate protection; otherwise, it takes 2 days. For combination pills, if started within 5 days after delivery or miscarriage, they are effective immediately, otherwise 7 days.
- During the initial days (7 days for combination pills, 2 days for mini-pills if started late), it is recommended to use a backup method like condoms for full pregnancy protection.
In summary, birth control pills can take from immediately to up to 7 days to work depending on the type and timing of initiation, with backup contraception advised during this initial period.
