Women’s health · FAQ
How do I switch to Birth control daily pills from another pill, patch, ring, shot, implant, or IUD?
Short answer
Ask your prescribing physician for a specific transition plan before switching to Birth control daily pills. The start date and need for backup depend on your current method and the new pill. Do not create a gap or stop your current method without clear instructions from your care team.
Switching to Birth control daily pills requires a plan based on both your current method and the pill being prescribed. A licensed physician in your state will review your health history and decide whether a combined or progestin-only pill is appropriate. Follow that physician’s directions and the new prescription label.
Tell your physician the exact method you use, when you last used it, and whether any doses were late or missed. For a shot, share the date of your last injection. For an implant or IUD, discuss the planned removal date. Also mention recent sex without protection and any chance of pregnancy.
Your plan may involve starting pills before stopping another method or using condoms for a set period. Do not remove a device or create a hormone-free gap without discussing the transition first. Device removal needs a trained clinician.
Bleeding patterns or side effects may change after switching. Results vary. Contact your care team if symptoms are troubling or your instructions are unclear.
Sources
Written by the Verra clinical team · Medical review pending
General information, not medical advice. If you're in crisis, call or text 988.
Related questions
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