Birth Control Methods: Birth Control Pills / Question
Published: December 17, 2002
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I have been using Ortho Tri-Cyclen for two weeks and was wondering when exactly it becomes effective in preventing pregnancy.
Signed: When Does Ortho Tri-Cyclen Become Effective?
Dear When Does Ortho Tri-Cyclen Become Effective?,
Good for you for practicing birth control! When used responsibly, the pill is a highly effective method of preventing pregnancy. You are correct in that you will need to use additional birth control when you first start on Ortho Tri-Cyclen, or any pill for that matter. But for specifics, you will need to follow your doctor's instructions about how long you will need to do so. You can also look on the instructional insert found inside the package for details, but to be extra safe, TeenHealthFX recommends you call your doctor to confirm. Most doctors will recommend using a "back-up" method of birth control, like condoms (or to practice abstinence) for the entire 1st cycle or pack of pills. This shouldn't be an issue if you continue to use condoms.
Lastly, please remember that although the pill is effective in preventing pregnancy, it will not protect you from STDs like a condom will. For more information, check out our answer on practicing safer sex.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
While 93% of teenage women report that their first intercourse was voluntary, one-quarter of these young women report that it was unwanted. 
