Dear pixie69,

It depends on when you start taking the pill. If you start the combination pill within five days after the start of your period (the first day of bleeding), take the first active pill of the first pack. You will not need to use a back-up method of birth control. You are protected against pregnancy immediately.

If you start the combination pill at any other time during your menstrual cycle, take the first active pill of the first pack. Use another method of birth control if you have vaginal intercourse during the first week of combination pill use — protection will begin after seven days.

You may start the progestin-only pill at any time. Use another method of birth control if you have vaginal intercourse during the first 48 hours of progestin-pill use — protection will begin after two days.

Remember — although the pill is up to 99.7 percent effective against pregnancy when used correctly, it offers no protection against infections. Only latex and female condoms reduce the risk of infection.

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.