Take one birth control pill every day at the same time and follow the instructions for your specific pill pack. 

If you miss a pill, the correct steps depend on the pill type and number of missed doses. 

Emergency contraception should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse.

 When starting contraception for the first time, 

it is important to consult a medical professional to choose the method that is most appropriate for you.

Taking birth control pills correctly is essential for maintaining their contraceptive effectiveness.

How to Start Taking Birth Control Pills

Many combined birth control pills can be started within the first five days of your menstrual period.

Take one pill every day, preferably at the same time.

Starting instructions may differ depending on the type and brand of pill. 

Always follow the instructions provided with your medication and the directions given by your doctor or pharmacist.

How to Take a 21-Day Pill Pack

With a standard 21-day birth control pill pack, take one active pill every day for 21 days.

This is followed by a seven-day pill-free interval, during which withdrawal bleeding usually occurs.

Begin the next pack on the eighth day, even if the bleeding has not completely stopped.

How to Take a 28-Day Pill Pack

With a 28-day pill pack, take one pill every day according to the order indicated on the package.

After taking all 28 pills, begin the next pack immediately without taking an additional break.

Some 28-day packs contain inactive or placebo pills, while others may follow a different schedule. 

Check the package instructions carefully.

What Should You Do If You Miss a Pill?

Instructions for missed pills may vary according to the type and brand of contraceptive pill.

The following is general guidance for standard combined oral contraceptive pills.

If One Active Pill Is Late or Missed

Take the late or missed pill as soon as you remember.

Continue taking the remaining pills at your usual time, even if this means taking two pills on the same day.

Additional contraception is generally not required.

If Two or More Consecutive Active Pills Are Missed

Take the most recently missed pill as soon as possible and discard any other missed pills.

Continue taking the remaining pills at the usual time, even if this means taking two pills on the same day.

Avoid sexual intercourse or use a barrier method, such as condoms, until you have taken active pills for seven consecutive days.

Depending on when the pills were missed and whether unprotected intercourse occurred, emergency contraception may need to be considered.

Because missed-pill instructions differ between combined pills and progestin-only pills, 

check your medication leaflet or contact your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure.

Possible Side Effects of Birth Control Pills

Possible side effects may include:

• Light vaginal bleeding or spotting
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headaches
• Acne or skin changes
• Breast tenderness
• Mood changes

Many mild side effects improve within the first two to three months as the body adjusts to the medication.

If the symptoms persist, become severe, or interfere with daily life, consult your doctor.

When Is Emergency Contraception Used?

Emergency contraception may be considered when contraception was not used,

 after unplanned unprotected intercourse, or when a condom breaks or slips.

Emergency contraceptive pills should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse.

Depending on the medication, they may be used within three to five days. 

Some emergency contraceptive pills can be taken up to 120 hours after intercourse, but they are generally more effective when taken earlier.

Because the appropriate option may depend on the time since intercourse, other medications, 

and your individual condition, consult a medical professional as soon as possible.

If your expected period does not occur after taking emergency contraception, 

visit an OB-GYN or take a pregnancy test at the recommended time to confirm whether pregnancy has occurred.