28 Day Pill Packs

As a general rule, take your 1st pill from the packet marked with the correct day of the week, these are usually marked 'start' at the top of the sheet, or may be highlighted in a silver area, and continue to take the pill at the same time each day, in the correct order, until the pack is finished.

It's important to take the pills as instructed, because missing pills or taking them at the same time as certain medicines may make them less effective.

If you do not start your first pill on the first day of your cycle, you will need to use another form of contraceptive for the first 7 days. When starting mid-cycle, it can also take longer for your body to adjust to the new hormone cycle. In some, this may cause spotting or irregular bleeding. It can take up to a few months after starting the contraceptive pill for more regular periods to return.

Phasic 21-Day Pill Packs

As a general rule, take your 1st pill from the packet marked with the correct day of the week, these are usually marked 'start' at the top of the sheet, and continue to take the pill at the same time each day, in the correct order, until the pack is finished.

Stop taking pills for 7 days (during these 7 days you will get a bleed), and start your next pack on the 8th day.

It's important to take the pills as instructed, because missing pills or taking them at the same time as certain medicines may make them less effective.

If you do not start your first pill on the first day of your cycle, you will need to use another form of contraceptive for the first 7 days. When starting mid-cycle, it can also take longer for your body to adjust to the new hormone cycle. In some, this may cause spotting or irregular bleeding. It can take up to a few months after starting the contraceptive pill for more regular periods to return.


During your virtual consultation with your assigned Partner Doctor, make sure you ask any questions about your prescribed medication, including how to take it and how to start it.

Check out this NHS page for more information.

Updated on: 06/03/2024