Is it necessary to use another form of birth control with hormonal contraceptives?
The birth control pill, Norplant (which is no longer available in the United States) and Depo-Provera are thought to be effective right away so long as you start them on the first day of your period. However, it can take as much as seven days before they are fully effective. While most women aren’t fertile during this time anyway, you may want to use an additional form of birth control, like the sponge, just in case. You will need to use another form of birth control for the first week if you start one of these methods on any day other than the first day of your period. Some doctors may also recommend that women on the birth control pill use an additional form of birth control for the first month. Women who are using the mini-pill will need an additional form of birth control for the first cycle (28 days). Moreover, none of these forms of birth control protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
The birth control pill, Norplant (which is no longer available in the United States) and Depo-Provera are thought to be effective right away so long as you start them on the first day of your period. However, it can take as much as seven days before they are fully effective. While most women aren’t fertile during this time anyway, you may want to use an additional form of birth control, like the sponge, just in case. You will need to use another form of birth control for the first week if you start one of these methods on any day other than the first day of your period. Some doctors may also recommend that women on the birth control pill use an additional form of birth control for the first month.
