Like a Virgin

Just 37 days from my wedding date! I have a question about birth control... my fiancee has been to her doctor, and he recommends either Yasmin or Diane-35. I can't find anything anywhere which tells how many days in advance somebody should begin taking either of these medications before beginning sexual activity. Can she take it the day before the 1st time we have sex? Does it have to be a week before? 28 days before? What?

I am also planning to use a condom which I hope will make us "fool-proof" (or as much as possible) by using both methods. I hope I can figure out what to do with the condom once I get it out of it's little envelope. I guess I should practice with a few, huh?

It's recommended that you use a backup method of birth control with the first pack of pills because it may take a week or so for them to fully protect against pregnancy, and that you always use condoms with the pill to protect against STDs.

Some useful links for you:

Birth Control Message Board

Birth Control Pills

Condoms

Male Condom Application

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She should start on the Sunday after her period begins, or on the day it begins if it's on a Sunday. That should provide the easiest time for her to adjust. It's also better for her to start as soon as possible so that she'll have some time to adjust. Some women get side effects like irregular bleeding.

One thing though, does she have a severe acne problem? Diane-35 is not meant to be used solely for birth control. It's meant for certain conditions, and the birth control aspect is a bonus. You can read more about that here:

http://www.cmaj.ca/cgi/content/full/168/4/455

Congratulations on your upcoming marriage!

Basics of Sex