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Starting Lo Loestrin Fe depends on your menstrual cycle and your healthcare provider's recommendations.
When Should I Start Taking Lo Loestrin Fe?
Lo Loestrin Fe can be started on the first day of your period (Day 1 start) or on the first Sunday after your period begins (Sunday start) [1]. If you choose a Sunday start, you will need to use a backup method of birth control, such as condoms, for the first seven days of taking the pills [1]. Your healthcare provider will advise you on the best starting method for your situation [1].
What If I Miss a Pill or Start Late?
If you miss one active pill, take it as soon as you remember. You do not need backup birth control. If you miss two or more active pills in a row, take the most recently missed pill as soon as you remember. Throw away the other missed pills. You will need to use backup birth control for seven days after restarting the pills [1]. If you miss pills at the beginning of your pack, you may need to use backup birth control for seven days [1]. If you have missed more than 5 days of active pills, consult your healthcare provider [1].
How Does Lo Loestrin Fe Work?
Lo Loestrin Fe is a combination oral contraceptive that contains norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol [1]. It prevents pregnancy by suppressing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus to block sperm, and thinning the lining of the uterus [1].
What Are the Risks of Taking Lo Loestrin Fe?
Like all oral contraceptives, Lo Loestrin Fe carries risks, including an increased risk of blood clots, stroke, and heart attack [1]. Smoking cigarettes while taking birth control pills increases the risk of serious cardiovascular side effects [1]. These pills do not protect against sexually transmitted infections [1].
Can I Switch Birth Control Pills?
If you are switching from another birth control method, your healthcare provider will advise you on how to start Lo Loestrin Fe. Generally, if switching from a combined pill, patch, or vaginal ring, you can start Lo Loestrin Fe on the day you would have started your next pack of the previous method [1]. If switching from the progestin-only pill, you can start Lo Loestrin Fe any day [1].
How Long Do I Need to Take Lo Loestrin Fe to Be Protected?
If you start Lo Loestrin Fe on the first day of your period, you will be protected against pregnancy immediately [1]. If you start on a Sunday, you will need to use backup birth control for the first seven days of taking the pills [1].
Sources:
[1] https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/