when does it take effect?

[chelybell7]

when you start the pill, how long does it take to take effect?

i've heard it takes a few cycles but then again, i heard if you start right after your period, it because effective immediately.

&.. what are the first symptoms of pregnancy?

[demonbuttercup]

My doctor told me to use a back up method until I had finished a whole pack. That gives your body time to get on its cycle.

[dancingdoc2]

It is my understanding that it takes one complete cycle plus the remainder of the present one.

[Brandye]

There should be no "remainder of the present one." You go on the pill based on "day 1" the beginning of a period. Some pill instructions say wait a week but most doctors recommend one complete cycle before you stop other contraception.