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Originally Posted by JustJess
When I changed from the patch to the ring, my gyno told me the same thing - if I'm not mistaken, it's because the hormones and the amounts haven't changed, just the method of delivery - thus no need to wait the first month. However, it wouldn't kill you to play it safe and use backup.  |
Yep.
The reason why hormonal birth control pills are usually less effective the first month is because enough of the hormone that stops ovulation might not have built up enough in the woman's system, and therefore ovulation might still occur because of this. It really depends on the pill. Most low-dose pills need to be used with a back-up method for the first month so that the build-up of hormone can occur. Nuvaring needs to be used with a back-up method for the first month. Switching from Nuvaring to low-dose or higher dose hormonal birth control pills should not be a problem, but it's always a good idea to use condoms.
Oh, and the last time I talked to my RNP she said that on regular birth control pills (not tricyclic and not low-dose) it usually takes a week before you're protected, but condoms are a good call regardless, as you've also got to take some responsibility.