How to Use Birth Control Pills

There are many types of birth control pills. Some brands contain 28 pills (one for each day of your cycle); others only have 21 pills and allow you to take a week's break before starting the next cycle of pills. Read the instructions in the package and follow them carefully. For birth control pills to be most effective, you should take your pill at the same time each day. 

Some things may stop the pill from working properly. The pill may not work as well:

• during the first cycle when you are taking birth control pills for the first time;
• during the first cycle when you are taking birth control pills again after being off them;
• if you are taking antibiotics, antacids or medication that controls seizures (If your doctor gives you any new medication, ask if it will interfere with your birth control pills.);
• if you have vomited or had diarrhea.

If these things happen when you are taking the pill, you should use another method of birth control as back up for one full week so you don't get pregnant.