Family Planning Plus

Yes. Anytime you have unprotected intercourse, there is the risk of pregnancy. The birth control pills take at least 7 days of consistent use before they are effective. The pills protect you from pregnancy only during the time that you are taking them. Once you stop your pills, consider yourself fertile.

You most likely started bleeding because of the lack of hormones (from the pill) in your system. However, since you stopped your pills in the middle of the cycle, it is still possible that you could have ovulated, increasing your chance of pregnancy.

If you stopped your pills because of side effects, questions or concerns, contact your doctor or clinic. Discuss these things with your health care provider. If discontinuation was due to side effects, a change in pills may be needed. If discontinuation was due to cost, discuss changing to a lower cost pill.  If the birth control pills just weren’t for you, there are many other birth control options available. When used correctly & consistently, condoms can be an effective birth control method.

Free condoms are available at all Family Planning Plus clinics. Family Planning Plus also offers gynecological exams and birth control at little to no cost, depending on household size & income.