Mini pill contraception

[Charlotem]

Hiya, I am 15 and have been prescribed the ‘mini pill’. I have a boyfriend who I have been with for a year and I am wondering if I need to use another form of protection during sex if I am taking this pill. Also, how long do I have to wait for the pill to become a reliable contraceptive? Thanks.

[Louis__]

Yes always use condoms it’s not just pregnancy you have to protect yourself from

[Sib2014]

The pill is effective after 7 days if taken everyday around the same 12, hour window slot (depending on which mini pill). If you miss a pill outwith the window slot then you will need to use another form of contraception such as condoms. The pill only protects against pregnancy not sexually transmitted infections so if you and you're partner wanted to be protected against that then you would need to use condoms. Although if you know you are both STI free then you wouldn't really need condoms as well.