How quickly hormonal birth control pills become effective varies depending on the hormones they contain and which day of a woman’s menstrual cycle the pills are started. Most combination birth control pills are effective after seven days of continuous use. However, some progestin-only pills may become effective after just two days of use.

Other forms of birth control require varying amounts of time to become effective.

• Birth control patches: When applied during the first five days of a menstrual period, a birth control patch becomes effective immediately. If the patch is applied any time after the 5th day of a menstrual period, it will take seven days of continuous wear to become effective.
• Vaginal rings: When inserted on the first day of the menstrual period, a vaginal ring becomes effective immediately. If inserted any time after the first day of the menstrual period, it will be effective after seven days of use.
• Diaphragms: This form of birth control does not contain hormones, and it’s inserted before sexual intercourse. While a diaphragm becomes effective immediately upon insertion, it should remain in place for at least six hours after sex to help prevent pregnancy.

No, you do not ovulate while using hormonal birth control such as birth control pills, birth control patches and vaginal rings. If used as directed, these forms of birth control methods prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovaries).

Yes, hormonal birth control medications (e.g., birth control pills, birth control patches and vaginal rings) may help reduce the pain associated with menstrual cramps. You may notice an improvement within a few months after starting birth control.

Yes, all forms of birth control expire. Every package has an expiration date printed by the manufacturer. Expired birth control may not work as well as intended and should not be used. Always check the expiration dates of all medications, including birth control, before use.

As with all medications, birth control can cause side effects. Common side effects associated with hormonal birth control methods, such as birth control pills, patches, and vaginal rings, include headaches, changes to breast tissue (e.g., pain, tenderness), mood changes, nausea and vomiting, changes in weight, stomach pain and unusual bleeding. Seek immediate medical help if you notice any severe side effects such as a change in your blood pressure, signs of a heart attack (e.g., chest pain or discomfort), sudden shortness of breath, swelling in your legs or feet, or a change in your blood sugar. Speak with your healthcare provider about the potential side effects of your medication, as well as any side effects you may be currently experiencing.

Yes, some forms of birth control are available over the counter. Opill® is an FDA-approved, progestin-only oral tablet that’s available without a prescription. It does not contain estrogen. When used as directed, this daily birth control pill is 98% effective at preventing pregnancy. It’s one of the most effective over-the-counter birth control methods available. Some non-hormonal birth control options available over the counter include condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, sponges, spermicides, and vaginal pH regulator gels.

Yes, Walgreens Virtual Care providers can prescribe birth pills, patches, rings and diaphragms virtually to women ages 18-55.

To ensure your birth control prescription is safe for you, a blood pressure reading from the past year is required. This may include a photo of a medical record from a patient healthcare portal or an at-home blood pressure monitor reading. The photo must include your name, date of birth and date of reading.