HomeAnswersObstetrics and Gynecologyprogesterone tabletWill it be effective if I took placebo a week before the first mini-pill?

Took placebo a week before my first mini-pill. Will it work?

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Answered by

Dr. Sameer Kumar

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At June 5, 2016
Reviewed AtJune 27, 2023

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I am switching from a combined pill to POPs. I am switching due to a history of chronic migraines and the estrogen in the combined pill was not helping my migraines. I was instructed to take the placebo pill a week before starting the POPs, so I did. But now, after taking the first mini pill, I am reading that I should have started before the placebo week. I have already started my first week of POPs. So, how will they be affected? Will they still work? Should I use a backup method for a few weeks?

Answered by Dr. Sameer Kumar

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The idea is if you are switching from combined pills then during the placebo week you should be getting a withdrawal bleed. It shall indicate the start of a fresh cycle and then from day 2 of your cycle you can easily start your mini-pill pack (Progesterone pills). If you have done so, then there is no need of any backup. Just, continue the mini-pill pack. If menses have not occurred and you started pill earlier, then still backup would not be required, but you may experience menses only after end of the mini-pill pack. Importantly, you should know that these pills have to be taken on time as you may easily experience intermenstrual spotting if next pill intake is delayed.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Sameer Kumar
Dr. Sameer Kumar

Obstetrics and Gynecology

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