Ending one method of birth control and beginning another can lead to unintended pregnancy if not done correctly, reports a recent New York Times story.
Even waiting for your next menstrual cycle to begin a different type or brand of birth control pill (a common misstep) can increase the risk of getting pregnant, the story says. It’s essential not to miss even one day.
For other kinds of changes — say, from a pill to a contraceptive patch — a two-day overlap is needed to prevent a decline in hormone levels and assure contraceptive protection. When switching from a pill, patch or vaginal ring to a progestin IUD or hormonal implant, an overlap of seven days is needed, but no overlap is required if switching to a copper IUD.
On the other hand, if the switch is made in the opposite direction — from a copper IUD to a pill, patch or ring — a woman should use the new method for seven days before the IUD is removed.
Using condoms or a diaphragm with spermicide is another option to make sure you’re covered while you’re switching.
For further information, check out this handy chart on changing birth control methods from ReproductiveAccess.org.
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