How close to the original time you began the pill do you have to cont. to take it?

**abcde** · 09-05-2011 03:09 PM

Like if I started the pill say at 11:00, is it okay to take it the next times later or earlier? Like 11:-12:30 range or even 1pm? Does it matter how close you are to the original time you started it?

**rosekitten** · 09-05-2011 05:52 PM

It depends on the woman. The reason it is so vital to take the pill at the same time is because some women (although, from what my doctor tells me, it's rare) will ovulate within the first hour of missing their pill, thus making them fertile. Most women I think it's about 3 hours (google should be able to answer that better, do a search). The best way to switch your time is to simply wait until your next pack to avoid running any risks.

**ItsASecret** · 09-06-2011 05:19 PM

It is about a 3 hour window, reason is because the pill is actually metabolized enough to need another dose to always have enough in the body. After 3 hours though is not recommended because you will then need to try and stick to that new time as much as possible. Best to stick with whatever time you have become accustomed to and stick to that as best you can. Taking it between 11-12:30 is fine as long as you do not keep jumping around with times, if you take it at 11 one day and 11:30 the next day and 11:15 the day after it is is all fine.

**orchiddreams** · 09-07-2011 01:17 PM

My guess is it's better to take it earlier than later so long as you continue with the new time so you consistently have the hormone in ur system.

Best advice: use as directed same time everyday. Set an alarm on your phone and make it a habit to document in ur calendar exactly when you took ur pill so you can keep track.