I recently started taking birth control, and had a few questions about it. First of all, I am temporarily taking some anti-biotics to get over being sick, I have heard that it decreases the effectiveness of the birth control. Is that true? By how much? Also, is the birth control effective from the first pill or do you have to wait a while for it to kick in?

Thanks a lot

Yes it decreases the effectiveness of the BCpill. How much? Enough to get you pregnant.

Thanks a lot... one more question though, how long does it take for the birth control to become an effective contraceptive?

If you start taking the pill ON the FIRST day of your period - it's effective immediately. If you start the pack on the first sunday AFTER your period starts, then you need to use a second form of protection for the first 7 days on the pack. It all depends on what day you want to start your pill pack really.

It takes a month anywhere I have read so use a condom especially on antibiotics as I have a wonderful 12 year old daughter from my antibiotic/bc combo. Back then it was just coming to light that this combo was dangerous and it knocked out your pill but the pharms werent warning yet like they do now. I wouldnt trade her for the world but just a warning be careful.

Autumn.