Dear dianigu,

The birth control pill is effective in reducing the risk of pregnancy as long as it is taken correctly and consistently — every single day, at the same time each day. If a woman wants to become pregnant, she should stop taking the pill.

As soon as a woman stops taking the pill, she is no longer protected against pregnancy. It often takes about one to three months for a woman's period to resume its normal cycle once when she stops taking the pill — but the ability to become pregnant returns much more quickly.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.