Is a backup method of contraception required if a woman starts the progestin only pill (POP) on the first or second day of her cycle?
No if the POP is started on day one or day two of the menstrual cycle no additional precautions are required. If adherence in a new user is a potential problem backup contraception may be prudent initially. This back-up method is particularly important during the first month of use because first time pill users may take the pill incorrectly or forget to take the pill. Many first time users also require dual protection for sexually transmitted diseases (STD). In “at risk” individuals’ condom use should be encouraged in addition to the POP to help prevent the transmission of STDs.
