How long does it take for short-acting oral contraceptives to become effective?
Oct 18, 2023
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
Introduction
Short-acting oral contraceptives need to be taken for 7 days before they become effective. If the patient is considering contraception, they should take the short-acting contraceptive pills regularly as directed by a doctor for 7 days. Until the medication becomes effective, additional contraceptive measures are recommended. After taking the pills continuously for 21 days, the patient may stop taking them under the guidance of a doctor. When taking short-term oral contraceptives, patients should take the pill at the same time every day. To avoid missing doses, it may be helpful to set an alarm as a reminder.
In general, combined oral contraceptives need to be taken for 7 days before they become effective. The detailed explanation is as follows:
Short-term oral contraceptives are combination drugs formulated with estrogen and progestin. They contain low hormone levels and have minimal side effects. These medications prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation, altering the endometrial environment, changing the consistency of cervical mucus, and preventing sperm penetration. If a patient wishes to use contraception, they should take the short-term contraceptive regularly for 7 days as directed by a physician. Additional contraceptive measures are recommended during the first 7 days until the medication becomes fully effective. After taking the pills continuously for 21 days, patients may stop taking them under medical guidance.
In addition, when taking short-term oral contraceptives, patients should take the pill at the same time every day. To avoid missing doses, setting an alarm as a reminder is recommended. If a dose is missed by less than 12 hours, contraceptive effectiveness is not reduced. However, if the missed dose exceeds 12 hours, in addition to taking the missed pill as soon as possible, condoms should be used during intercourse for the following 7 days. If any adverse reactions occur, patients should seek medical attention promptly.
