Marvelon is a combination pill of estrogen and progestin. The daily dose of hormones taken in the pill work mainly by tricking your body into thinking that ovulation has already happened. This prevents an egg from ripening and being released from the ovaries each month.
The hormones also increase the thickness of the natural mucus at the neck of the womb, which makes it more difficult for sperm to cross from the vagina into the womb and reach an egg. They also change the quality of the womb lining (endometrium), making it less likely that a fertilized egg can implant there.
How do I take Marvelon?
Marvelon is a monophasic pill which means that each tablet has the same dose of hormones in it. One tablet is taken every day for 21 days and you then have a seven day break from pill-taking. During the seven day break, the levels of the hormones in your blood drop, which results in a withdrawal bleed that is similar to your normal period. You start the next pack after the seven pill-free days are up, even if you are still having your period.
You will still be protected against pregnancy in your pill-free week, provided you took all the pills correctly, you start the next packet on time and nothing else happened that could make the pill less effective (eg. sickness, diarrhea, or taking certain medicines).
When can I start taking Marvelon?
You should start taking the pill the first day of your period. This will protect you from pregnancy immediately and you won’t need to use any back-up contraception. If necessary, you can also start taking it up to day five of your cycle without needing to use additional contraception when you start. However, if you have a short menstrual cycle (with your period coming every 23 days or less), starting as late as the fifth day of your cycle may not provide you with immediate protection. Speak with your doctor as to whether you would need a back-up for the first seven days.
What should I do if I forget to take a pill?
Always try to take your pill at the same time every day. Try combining it with brushing your teeth or eating a meal – so it’s easier to remember to take it. If you forget to take a pill, you should take it as soon as you remember (even if that means taking two pills in one day) and then continue to take your pills, one every day, as normal.
With Marvelon, if you have missed one or two pills, you will still be protected against pregnancy and you don’t need to use extra contraception. Take the last pill you missed as soon as you remember, then continue taking your pills as normal.
If you forget to take three or more pills, you will not be protected against pregnancy. You should take the last pill you missed as soon as you remember, forget the other missed ones and then continue to take your pills, one every day, as normal. You should then either not have sex, or use a back-up contraceptive, until you have taken a pill correctly for the next seven days in a row.
Marvelon should not be used if you:
- have a known or suspected pregnancy
- are breastfeeding (until weaning or for six months after birth)
- have a personal or family history of a blood clot in a vein (venous thromboembolism), eg. in the leg (deep vein thrombosis) or in the lungs (pulmonary embolism)
- have blood disorders that increase the risk of blood clots in the veins, eg antiphospholipid syndrome or factor V Leiden
- have a long-term condition called systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE)
- have excess of urea in the blood causing damaged red blood cells (haemolytic uraemic syndrome)
- have two or more other risk factors for getting a blood clot in a vein, eg. obesity, varicose veins, long-term immobility
- ever had a blood clot in an artery, eg a stroke or mini-stroke caused by a blood clot, or a heart attack
- have angina
- have a heart valve disease
- have a irregular heartbeat caused by very rapid contraction of the top two chambers of the heart (atrial fibrillation)
- have moderate to severe high blood pressure (hypertension)
- have high cholesterol levels
- have severe diabetes with complications, eg affecting the eyes, kidneys or nerves
- smoke more than 40 cigarettes per day
- are over 50 years of age
- have two or more other risk factors for getting a blood clot in an artery, eg. family history of heart attack or stroke before the age of 45 (parent, brother or sister), diabetes, high blood pressure, smoking, age over 35 years, obesity, migraines
- get migraines with aura, severe migraines regularly lasting over 72 hours despite treatment, or migraines that are treated with ergot derivatives
- have a history of breast cancer
- have cancer involving the genital tract
- have vaginal bleeding of unknown cause
- have severe liver disease, eg. liver cancer, hepatitis
- have a history of liver disease when liver function has not returned to normal
- have disorders of bile excretion that cause jaundice (eg Dubin-Johnson or Rotor syndrome)
- have gallstones (cholelithiasis)
- have a history of jaundice, severe itching, hearing disorder called otosclerosis, or rash called pemphigoid gestationis during a previous pregnancy, or previous use of sex hormones
- have hereditary blood disorders known as porphyrias
Does Marvelon have any side effects?
Common side effects for Marvelon can be:
- Weight gain
- Nausea and vomiting (felt for the first few cycles)
- Dizziness
- Increase or decrease in acne
- Headaches
- High blood pressure
- Loss of libido
- Depression
- Vaginal infections
Serious, but less common, health risks can be:
- Blood clots in legs, lungs, heart or brain
- Stroke
- Heart attacks
- Possibly cervical cancer
If side effects persist or worsen while taking Marvelon contact your doctor immediately.
Marvelon will not protect you from HIV/AIDS and sexually transmitted diseases.
Certain medications like antibiotics are also known to increase the chance of your birth control pill failing.
BirthControlBuzz is a service company that provides birth control prices, birth control types (prescription required), health administrative services, and birth control statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase birth control on-line.
For more information, call 1-866-868-8850 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.
Birth Control Buzz is a service company that provides birth control prices, types of birth control(prescription required), health administrative services, and birth control statistics predominantly to US patients seeking to purchase pharmaceuticals on-line. For more information, call 1-866-868-8850 or visit http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/.
I started taking Marvelon in Jan 08 and have constant thirst? Does anyone else?
Comment by Anonymous — May 19, 2008 @ 8:49 am
I Have been taking Marvelon for 2 years and at the end of one of my packets 6 weeks ago i forgot to take a few as i was in a different place and forgot to bring them with me. So i decided to come off it for a month and then started a new packet when my next period came a few weeks ago.However during the month i wasnt on it i had unprotected sex but he didn't ejaculate inside me. Now i have brown and red bleeding and abdominal cramps. My period is not due for another week. I have taken 2 pregnancy tests but both have been negative. Could there still be a chance i am pregnant? Or could it be because i came off the pill for a month?
Comment by Anonymous — January 4, 2010 @ 3:27 am
Dear Anonymous,When you come off birth control, your body is most likely adjusting to the lack of hormone control from the birth control pill therefore you got a lighter period. After two negative pregnancy tests, you are most likely not pregnant and the light period is because you came off the pill for a month.
Comment by Janine — January 7, 2010 @ 3:04 pm
I've been on Marvelon for 4 or 5 years now. IAnd Not long ago I just found out that I have minor Cervical Cancer, I'm also 19 years old. I have always been very healthy, never had anything seriously wrong with me. One of the side effects is you can get Cervical cancer from this pill. Its been a great pill, other then that. I WOULDN'T recommend taking it!!!!
Comment by Anonymous — January 13, 2010 @ 8:25 pm
i have been on marvelon for the past seven yrs i stopped it last year because it was affecting my libido and sex life really bad. Now i am not sure was to go on. i am thinkin the IUD. Advice please
Comment by Anonymous — February 6, 2010 @ 12:18 pm
Dear Anonymous,It is best to get your birth control options from your doctor. Your doctor would be able to inform you all about each birth control option available to you.
Comment by Janine — February 8, 2010 @ 9:45 am
I was wondering my girlfriend and i have sex often and she is on marvelon can you tell me the percentage of how unlikely it is for her to get pregnate? We are always using protection just in case.
Comment by Owl — June 14, 2010 @ 3:00 am
Dear Owl,
All birth control pills have a 96-99% effectiveness, but due to poor user habits such as taking the pill at different times of day, or missing pills, the pill is realistically 87% effective.
Comment by Janine — June 14, 2010 @ 5:17 pm
Dear all,
I have a question: does Marvelon have any conflicts with multi vitamin pills? specifically, “one a day” pills?
Comment by Marjan — August 14, 2010 @ 10:45 pm
I have stop taking the pill one month ago and i had sex but he did not ejaculate inside me. i m still not having my period. am i pregnant or is it because i stop taking the pill and it affected my cycle? is it normal to be late if stop taking the pill?
Comment by Judy — August 29, 2010 @ 8:08 pm
Dear Judy,
Whenever you stop the pill, you are supposed to get your period. If you already missed one month and had unprotected sex during that month (whether he ejaculated in you or not), take a pregnancy test. If the test comes out negative and you are still worried, go see your doctor for another pregnancy test just in case. If it is still negative, then wait for your period again next month and use protection whenever you have sex. If you do not have your period next month, check with your doctor and see what he/she recommends for you.
Comment by Janine — August 30, 2010 @ 3:07 pm
me and my boyfriend had unprotected sex during the last day of my menstruation. he said he didnt come out in me… but still i took marvelon the next day can i be pregnant? please answer immediately
Comment by erika fernandez — September 8, 2010 @ 10:26 pm
Dear Erika,
As long as you continue taking your birth control pills on time you should not be pregnant. Wait for your next period and if you do get your period you are definitely not pregnant. But if you don’t get your period then you should take a pregnancy test.
Comment by Janine — September 9, 2010 @ 9:29 am
ive been takin marvelonfor 1 week now.im experiencing terrible craps in my stomach,side and back.almost like really bad period pains only 10 times worse.
has any1 ever had this??
asha
Comment by asha — September 27, 2010 @ 10:08 am
Dear Asha,
You should talk to your doctor about these cramps.
Comment by Janine — September 27, 2010 @ 4:46 pm
Hi, i take the marvelon pill at 6:40 right after dinner and i seem to wake up and puke up my dinner, should i stop taking this pill?
Comment by kayle — September 29, 2010 @ 5:10 pm
Dear Kayle,
Whenever you throw up within 2-3 hours of taking the birth control pill you need to make sure you are using back up contraception. Make an appointment with your doctor and let him/her know that you are throwing up after taking the pill.
Comment by Janine — September 30, 2010 @ 9:25 am
I threw up within 2 hours of taking my pill on my fourth last pill before my sugar pills.. i had unprotected sex about 6 hours after i took my pill the next day. I also had diarrea about an hour and a half that day.. am i still protected if i was continuing to take my pills
Comment by Jessica — October 12, 2010 @ 9:28 pm
Dear Jessica,
If you threw up within two hours after taking the pill and severe diarrhea may prevent the pill from working. Since you had unprotected sex on that same day you can either take Plan B or take two pills today (the same rules as forgetting a pill) and then continue taking the pills normally.
Comment by Janine — October 13, 2010 @ 9:42 am
i just bought the pills today. and today its my 7th day of my period.. is it okay for me to start now rather than wait for my period to come again next month?? please reply me asap. and this is my first time going to take birth control pill.. im only 22.. and im kind of having problem of gaining weight as my current weight now is only 37kg. really looking forward for your advise..
tq ^^
Comment by natasha labrooy — October 25, 2010 @ 8:20 am
Dear Natasha,
There are 3 ways you can start the pill: 1) Sunday Start 2) First-Day Start 3) Quick Start.
The first option is when you take your pill on the first Sunday of your period. Your period starts on a Tuesday, so you take it on the coming Sunday of that week.
The second option is what your doctor told you to do – to start your pill on the first day of your period. You do not have to choose what your doctor recommends you to do, unless your doctor specificially said this is the only way you can take the pill due to other health concerns.
The third option is to start taking the pill whenever. You can take the pill today, right now and you just won’t get your period until all your active pills are completed.
Weight gain is a common side effect for girls on birth control. The pill may help you gain weight, but weight gain is not a side effect that occurs for every girl who goes on the pill. You might not experience weight gain at all or maybe just a little bit. If you do notice you gained a lot of weight, try maintaining a healthy active lifestyle to control your weight gain so it wouldn’t be a problem.
Comment by Janine — October 25, 2010 @ 9:47 am
thanxs so much for the advise.. so now i can start now and until i finish all the pils then only my period will come right?? thank you so much..
Comment by natasha labrooy — October 26, 2010 @ 12:42 am
Dear Natasha,
That’s correct
Comment by Janine — October 26, 2010 @ 9:30 am
i just had using contraceptve pill right now but im just wondering im almost 2 weeks delayed w my period. am i pregnant? is it normal delayed periods if using pills?
Comment by madel — November 15, 2010 @ 9:43 pm
Dear Madel,
Did you just start using these pills? If so, then yes, it is normal to miss your period during the first 3 months of being on the pill. After the initial 3 month timeframe, your period should normalize and will always get your period during the time you are either not taking pills or on “inactive” pills. If you have been taking birth control pills for a long time and have not had your period for almost 2 weeks, you may be pregnant and need to take a pregnancy test. Make an appointment with your doctor to double check that you are not pregnant.
Comment by Janine — November 17, 2010 @ 6:13 pm
i start using marvelon last year when i was using a very high dosage medicine for my pimple.cause the doctor told me try not to be pregnnt because it will make my baby abnormal..i used marvelon for 8 months.. then i stopped 1 year frm now.. after that i never use any contraceptive but my menstruation always came late up to two weeks.. thinking this month that i am pregnant… now that i havee my period i start using marvelon on the 3 day of my menstruation… is there any possibility that it will fail or i will get pregnant coz i strt on the 3rd day?
Comment by roselle — November 24, 2010 @ 4:41 am
Dear roselle,
The pill will not fail and you will not get pregnant for staring the pill on the third day of your period. Continue taking the pills every day and you will not be pregnant. If you forgot the pill, the chances of you becoming pregnant will be higher.
Comment by Janine — November 24, 2010 @ 7:07 am
ok thank you very much for responding… i made an alarm to my mobile every time i take the pill.
Comment by roselle — November 24, 2010 @ 7:31 am
i finished already the 21 pill… butit has been said that i will wait 7 days again before taking the pill.. but because i took the pill on the 3rd day my menstruation will fall on the 4th day after i stop the pill which is the right time to take the pill.. is it ok if i take the pill on the first day of my menstruation even the seven day is not yet finished?
Comment by roselle — December 16, 2010 @ 11:56 am
Hi Roselle,
Yes you can!
Comment by Janine — December 17, 2010 @ 9:58 am
I am currently on my 3rd package of marvelon. I had sex with my boyfriend last night and the condom broke. Am I protected or should I take the morning after pill?
Comment by Robin — February 13, 2011 @ 8:24 am
Dear Robin,
You should be protected if you didn’t miss a pill and have been taking the pill around the same time every day. If you are worried, you can take the morning after pill just in case.
Comment by Janine — February 14, 2011 @ 4:38 pm
I started taking Marvelon last month, I used to be on Diane 35 but I was using more for acne. I didn’t like that I was on such a high dose pill that is why I switched to Marvelon. Since on Marvelon my acne has come back not very much but I am noticing more pimples than usual. I still have my diane 35. Would it be a bad idea to go one month on diane35 and one month on Marvelon? Can I do that, or is it going to mess up my hormone levels?
Comment by Annie — February 28, 2011 @ 1:28 pm
Dear Annie,
I definitely would not recommend you to be switching pills every month. It most likely will mess up your hormone levels. If you want to go on a birth control pill that is a low dose for your acne as well as birth control, you should ask your doctor about Yaz. Make an appointment with your doctor to talk about Yaz or any other birth control your doctor will recommend for your acne.
Comment by Janine — March 1, 2011 @ 10:12 am
I have been on Marvelon for 5 or 6 years, if not longer. Now that I’m married and me and my husband will be looking at starting a family, I’d just like to know how long do I have to be off the pill before I will be able to get pregnant?
Comment by Lindie — March 4, 2011 @ 1:48 am
Dear Lindie,
If you are considering on having children and stopping the pill, you should wait two to three menstrual cycles after you have stopped the pill before trying to get pregnant. It is best to make an appointment with your doctor who prescribes you the birth control to start planning on when to stop the pill and to answer any questions you may have. Good luck!
Comment by Janine — March 4, 2011 @ 11:01 am
I am on Marvelon 28 and some say I can avoid bleeding by starting the next package right after I am finished the current package. IS this true? I am going away and dont want to have my period. Or, is it safe and effective to stop taking my current pill one week early, effectively getting my period one week earlier?
Comment by Jen — March 21, 2011 @ 2:22 pm
I have just started taking Marvelon, 10 days ago, I started it on the 6th day of my period. first I had an extended spotting and seemed like my period was never ending, then the spotting was gone and I had thick white, yellowish discharge for a few days and now I am spotting again…this is all while I suddenly went from a hyper sexual person to an almost nonexistent libido. Is this the normal process of adjusting to the pill or should I consult a doctor? Thanks!
Comment by Naz — March 22, 2011 @ 11:45 am
Hi there I just wanted to know. The doctor put me on marvelon about 4 months ago because i keep on getting reacurring ovarian cyst. This is suppose to is not? Because my cyst is back.
Comment by Mel — March 24, 2011 @ 1:18 am
Dear Jen,
Either way works. You can just skip your period this month and continue to the next package right away. If you are uncomfortable with not having your period for this month, then instead you can take the inactive pills a week before you go on vacation so you get your period one week earlier and then go back to your regular pills and then continue to your next pack. It is definitely safe and effective whichever way you choose.
Comment by Janine — March 30, 2011 @ 9:55 am
Dear Naz,
During the first three months of starting a new pill you may experience many side effects of the pill because your body is adjusting to the pill. Some of these side effects will go away after the first 3 months. If the side effects you are experiencing does not interfere with your daily functions I would suggest you stay on the pill for at least 3 months because once your body will get used to the regular hormones from the pill. A lot of the side effects such as the discharge and the spotting should be gone after being on the pill for 3 months. Loss of libido is definitely a common side effect of Marvelon and many other birth control pills as well so that side effect will most likely stick around after the 3 months. You can definitely consult a doctor if you have further questions about the side effects you are experiencing.
Comment by Janine — March 30, 2011 @ 10:34 am
Dear Mel,
When your doctor prescribed you Marvelon, is he/she aware that you have had a history of cysts? Probably not because Marvelon is not one of the pills that is supposed to prevent ovarian cysts. Definitely consult your doctor about your entire medical history including your history with ovarian cysts and find out about other birth control pill options that prevent ovarian cysts.
Comment by Janine — March 30, 2011 @ 10:49 am
I’m sure I’m not pregnant, I want to start taking marvelon 14 days before my next expected priod beause I want to skip my period this month & at the same time to be protected against pregnancy. Is that possible?? Thnkyou
Comment by mary — April 18, 2011 @ 7:01 am
Dear Mary,
If you are not sure if you are pregnant or not, before starting the pills, take a home pregnancy test. If it comes out positive, make an appointment with your doctor and get a more accurate pregnancy test. Only when the pregnancy test comes out negative (whether at home or at your doctor’s office), you can start the Marvelon pills. If you want to skip your period this month, take Marvelon and continue taking it until the end of the pack and then have your period. Hope that helps!
Comment by Janine — April 18, 2011 @ 9:45 am
I finished my 1 week taking Marvelon.Now I’m on the 2nd week but I’ve taken the 7th pill on the 2nd line instead of the 1st one yesterday.. I took the sunday pill instead of the Monday.
for this day,I took the Tuesday pill and left the Monday pill untouched.oh my… can you please advise?
Comment by Dess — April 28, 2011 @ 8:25 pm
Dear Dess,
All the pills are the same. The days are there just to remind you of which day you have last taken it and whether or not you have missed a pill. As long as you are taking an active pill every day until the pack is complete you will not be pregnant.
Comment by Janine — April 29, 2011 @ 9:38 am
thank you so much Janine…
Comment by Dess — April 29, 2011 @ 12:48 pm
Hi, I am diagnosed with endometriosis wtih severe pain when having my mensuration. My dr prescribe me Marvelon 21 for 6 months to be taken continuously to stop my period. I am suppose to have my period today, do i start the pills today? will i still get my period if i start the pills today? Do i have to wait for the bleeding to start the pills?
Thank you
Comment by Shobna — May 6, 2011 @ 10:22 am
Dear Shobna,
If you know that is when your period starts because it’s very regular, definitely start taking the pills. When you take your pills, you will not get your period. Do what your doctor recommends you to do.
Comment by Janine — May 9, 2011 @ 9:54 am
Hi ,I have been on triphasil for a good 7 odd years, however my Dr recently put me onto Mavelon. Once I had finished my period on triphasil I immediately started taking mavelon. I started in the green area as said, However gettin use to packaing,I was out and forgot to take the wed pill circled green, so in a rush,that newxt morning i took the wed pill circled red.I obv coulndt go back so i just carried on forward with the pill.obv leaving out one green circled one.. Im now on the over inactive pills. When am i supppose to start my period as I have not yet strted it and have had unprotected sex recently but he did not ejaculate in me.
Thanks a mill for the help!
Comment by Natasha — May 14, 2011 @ 11:09 pm
I’ve taken marvelon for 9 years give or take a year where I tried out Alesse and the patch. Marvelon seems to work best for me, especially since I back to back my packs for three month intervals so that I only get my period every three months.
Comment by Jade — May 15, 2011 @ 3:12 pm
Dear Natasha,
Just an FYI, whenever you miss a pill, you should double up on the next day. You may not have gotten your period while on Marvelon because you have just started on these new pills and your body is just getting used to them right now. It is not uncommon for girls to miss their period during the first 2-3 months of starting on a new pill so you should be fine. If you are worried, you can take a pregnancy test to see if it is positive. If it is negative, you are fine. if positive, make an appointment with your doctor to get another more accurate pregnancy test.
Comment by Janine — May 16, 2011 @ 11:22 am
Thanks a mill for your help!
Comment by Natasha — May 21, 2011 @ 12:14 pm
I’ve been taking marvelon for close to a year now and over the last few months the times in which i get my period have been changing. Currently I am two days later than my usual day, is it too soon to start worrying?
Comment by Jaime — June 1, 2011 @ 12:51 pm
Dear Jaime,
Yes it is too soon to start worrying. As long as you are getting your period you are not pregnant.
Comment by Janine — June 2, 2011 @ 4:20 pm
Hello,
I am 36 years old I have recently decided to stop taking the pill. I have been taking Marvelon for over 15 years. I’ve been off the pills for two weeks now and I have lots of pain towards the lower abdomen, I have gained a few pounds and my abdomen is inflated… is that normal?
Comment by Sandra — June 9, 2011 @ 6:58 am
Dear Sandra,
I am not sure if it is the pill that is causing your lower abdomen pain. I would suggest you make an appointment with your doctor and let him/her know if you are taking any other medications as well. He/she should be able to diagnose you.
Comment by Janine — June 9, 2011 @ 11:10 am
hi dr! is it safe to use two different pills at the same time? specifically DIANE-35 and MARVELON? thank you.hi dr! is it safe to use two different pills at the same time? specifically DIANE-35 and MARVELON? thank you. or double dose marvelon?
Comment by ac — June 10, 2011 @ 7:18 am
Dear AC,
No it is not safe. Doubling up with two different pills does not make the pill 100% effective, it will only mess up your hormone levels because the two different pills have two different hormone levels. The only time you need to double up on just Marvelon is if you missed a pill.
If you want to ensure that you are protected from pregnancy, make sure you follow your doctor’s guidance with taking the pill every day (without missing any pills), and taking the pill at around the same time every day as well.
Comment by Janine — June 10, 2011 @ 10:17 am
Hi there,
Need your advice. I’ve been taking marvelon all the time. Supposed to start on new pack on Tuesday, 14 June after my 7 days free period but didn’t get a chance to buy a pack so I’m currently off it. As of today, Sunday, 19 June, ive missed 6 days of pill.
Should I wait for my next period to start eating again and if yes exactly when do I start taking the 1st pill?
Thank you.
Comment by Linz — June 19, 2011 @ 6:27 am
Dear Linz,
To make sure that this does not happen again, you should look into buying Marvelon from BirthControlBuzz.com instead because you do not need to pick up your pack, it will be delivered straight to your home in time before your last pack is finished. In your situation, I would recommend you to use back up contraception for this month and start this pack on the Sunday of your period.
Comment by Janine — June 20, 2011 @ 10:12 am
can i take this pill even tho ive never had my period
Comment by audrina — June 27, 2011 @ 3:38 pm
Dear Audrina,
Did your doctor prescribe you to Marvelon? Does your doctor know if you have ever had your period or not? Make sure your doctor is aware that you have never had your period, because it sounds like you have not reached puberty yet. Please speak to your doctor for more information.
Comment by Janine — June 28, 2011 @ 11:35 am
yeah she priscribed me this pill but i was just double checking if its bad to take it if i havent had my period before
Comment by audrina — June 28, 2011 @ 12:46 pm
Dear Audrina,
This is a question you should have asked your doctor when she prescribed you the pill. Did she explain to you why she is prescribing you the pill?
Comment by Janine — June 29, 2011 @ 9:51 am
Hi,
I have a problem with my forgetfulness.I’ve asked you before and I’m asking now.I forgot to take my pills and I don’t know the last pill that I’ve taken because my packet was lost.We did a lot of travelling these past few weeks.I even forgot the exact date I stopped taking the pill.I then had my menstruation July 1 evening and I bought a new packet and took it July 2.Please advise,should I stop taking it?
Comment by Dess — July 3, 2011 @ 8:41 am
Hi Dess,
I would advise you to look into other forms of contraception such as the implant, shot, ring, patch, or the IUD that does not require you to take a pill every day. Find out more about the different types of birth control types here: http://www.birthcontrolbuzz.com/BirthControlTypesComparisonChart.aspx
Comment by Janine — July 4, 2011 @ 10:12 am
So I’ll just stop taking Marvelon?
Comment by Dess — July 4, 2011 @ 7:05 pm
If I still choose Marvelon Doctor,when can I start taking it again?Have I done it correctly?I am taking it still from July 2.
Comment by Dess — July 4, 2011 @ 7:09 pm
Dear Dess,
No, continue taking Marvelon until you have spoken to your doctor about finding another contraceptive that would better suit your needs without taking a pill daily.
Comment by Janine — July 5, 2011 @ 10:12 am
Dear Dess,
Continue taking Marvelon if you decide you do not want to try the other contraceptive methods. Just keep in mind that whenever you miss pills your risk for pregnancy is the highest. It is very important that you take your pill daily around the same time every day to ensure you are protected from pregnancy.
Comment by Janine — July 5, 2011 @ 10:14 am
Thank you Doctor.Am I safe for sexual intercourse? Does the period I’m back to Marvelon made it up for the days I haven’t taken it?
Comment by Dess — July 6, 2011 @ 7:55 am
Dear Dess,
I am not a doctor. I am a birth control expert. I don’t think that by going back on Marvelon would make up for the days you have not taken it. When was your last period?
Comment by Janine — July 6, 2011 @ 4:47 pm
my last period was July 1 evening so I bought a packet July 2 in the morning and took the first pill.Sorry for the confusion
Comment by Dess — July 6, 2011 @ 7:22 pm
Hi Dess,
Alright, as long as you have had your period first before you start on Marvelon again you are now protected. Because it’s still the first week of being on the pills, I would advise you use back up contraception (ie. condoms or spermicide) until the 3rd week of being on the pills.
Comment by Janine — July 7, 2011 @ 9:23 am
Hi, i switched to Marvelon 21 last month and right after i finished the first pack i went straight to the second, i just discovered tonight when i was wondering why my period was overdue that i forgot to take the week off before starting the first pack, im pretty freaked out and wondering what i should do im already in the middle of my second pack, should i keep taking them for the rest of the month then stop for a week when im done these or stop taking them for a week now. please help
Comment by chelsie — July 9, 2011 @ 12:24 am
Dear Chelsie,
Don’t panic, it’s okay if you forgot to skip a week for your period. Just finish the pack, since you’re already halfway there and make sure you take a week off the pills for your period to come before you start on your third pack.
Comment by Janine — July 11, 2011 @ 11:17 am
Hey, this is my first time ever using the pill and my doctor recommended me the Marvelon 0.15-30 MG-MCG Tabs for 28 days. I had my period on Sunday July 17 but could not get the prescriptions until tomorrow, July 20. What should i do and when should i start it? Another thing is that, I’ve been overweight 160lbs for my 5’2 and a half inches since i was in elementary, i just lost the weight this year now 105lbs so i really would not want to gain any weight at all since it was such a hard time for me before. I cannot gain more than the weight i am now because my frame plus the clothes i have would not fit any other sizes. What should i do? I don’t want to gain weight from this. Thank You.
Comment by Melina — July 19, 2011 @ 6:49 pm
Hi Melina,
The pill works differently for every girl and it may or may not happen to you. You just have to keep a careful eye on your weight while on the pill. Referring to your question about going on the pill. If you are sexually active, I would suggest that you wait until you get your next period. For the time being use condoms.
Comment by Janine — July 20, 2011 @ 2:48 pm
mam,i took microgynon last month.got periods after 2 days delay than usual date. was happy. this time time as cudnt get microgynon switched to marvelon.is it ok?i have been taking them from 1st august.got my periods on 27th nite.ok? will i get my periods on time this time too? i dont want my wouldbe or mum to know i am taking contraceptives.is there any chance for them to know? if i dont get my periods rightly,theyll take me to doc and then……i am 32.help me please
Comment by Diyu — August 7, 2011 @ 3:33 am
Dear Diyu,
It is not recommended for you to switch birth control pills without your doctor’s approval. If you do not want your mom to know, I would recommend you go see your family doctor now, and let him/her know that you are on birth control and that you do not want your parents to know. Under patient confidentiality, your family doctor should be able to handle the situation.
Comment by Janine — August 8, 2011 @ 11:19 am
Hi there,
Ive been on mavelon for about +-4 months now. im going away on holiday and reallt dont want to have my period on my hoilday which i already checked and i would. how do i skip a period for just one month? i have never done it before but this is a special occasion. will it be safe if i skip my period? and what pill do i skip? and what pill do i take thereafter and when do i take it? sorry for all the questions
Thanks a mill. . . .
Comment by Natasha — August 11, 2011 @ 9:48 am
Hi Natasha,
You don’t have to skip your period this month, you can just get your period a week earlier than you are supposed to. Stop your pills a week earlier than when you are supposed to and you will get your period. Then resume where you left off on your pack a week after you stopped your pills. You will be finishing the pack off during your holiday and on the following week begin your next pack. Let me know if you have any questions.
Comment by Janine — August 12, 2011 @ 9:57 am
Hi Janine,
Im currently on my period. What do you mean by stop my pills a week earlier? The inactive or active?
Sorry just a little confused,
Thanks again for your help
Comment by Natasha — August 12, 2011 @ 11:36 pm
Dear Natasha,
I thought you were on the Marvelon 21 day pill, not Marvelon 28 day – Sorry for the confusion! In this case, you can take your inactive pills whenever you want your period to start – you can schedule it for your period to start one week earlier or one week after your vacation.
Comment by Janine — August 15, 2011 @ 10:04 am
Thank you so much for your help!
Comment by Natasha — August 16, 2011 @ 9:06 am
I switched from Tri-cyclen Lo to Marvelon and have been on Marvelon for a month now, I am on my sugar pills. I haven’t gotten my period.. I used to get it every Tuesday on Tricyclen. Is this normal? I’m so nervous..
Comment by Amber — August 17, 2011 @ 6:31 am
Dear Amber,
This may be caused from switching pills because your body is getting used to the new set of pills. Your period should come back sometime in the next two months. If it still doesn’t, after being on Marvelon for 3 months, let your doctor know.
Comment by Janine — August 17, 2011 @ 9:34 am
Thank you, everything is good. I got it
Comment by Amber — August 17, 2011 @ 10:52 am
hi there,
just im a little bit confused on when im supposed to take my next pack of pills, im going to finish the tablet on Monday, then when can i start using the next pack. is it on Monday also or Tuesday of next week. thanks!
Comment by Eve — August 21, 2011 @ 7:29 am
I forgot to take 2 of the smaller pills in the pack and we had intercourse with my husband.I hurriedly drank the 2 after the intercourse,am I still protected? My packet has 21 big pills and 7 small pills
Comment by Sheena — August 22, 2011 @ 12:46 am
Dear Eve,
This depends on whether you are on the 21 day pack or the 28 day pack.
If you are on the 21 day pack, you take a 7 day pill break. If you finish the tablet on Monday, you don’t start the next pack until Tuesday of the following week.
If you are on the 28 day pack, take the last active pill on Monday and then take the next 7 inactive pills – this is where you get your period. Once you have taken the 7th inactive pill, you then start your next pack.
Comment by Janine — August 22, 2011 @ 8:29 am
Dear Sheena,
The small pills are the inactive pills so you should be on your period. As long as you do not miss any of the 21 big pills then you should be protected.
Comment by Janine — August 22, 2011 @ 8:45 am
i am using a 21 day pack, got it.. thank you very much.
Comment by Eve — August 22, 2011 @ 8:47 am
i started taking marvelon pills the exact same night i had sex, four days before my period and i didnt get my period yet it’s been 3 days. I read that these pills might caused missed periods but i just wana make sure did i make a mistake taking them at that time? Could they not be effective? Thank you
Comment by natasha — August 25, 2011 @ 11:25 am
Dear Natasha,
When starting a pill, it is highly recommended to use back up contraception as well for the first month to ensure that you are protected. Missed periods in the first month is common, but if you still don’t get your period the second month, I would advise you to first take a home pregnancy test. If it is positive, make an appointment with your doctor to get a pregnancy test.
Comment by Janine — August 26, 2011 @ 9:23 am
I was on Aleese 28 for 4 months and spotted from the 2nd week of my active pill until i got my period. I went to the doctor today and I was switched to Marvelon 28. I have been researching Marvelon and have seen tons of negative feedback. I am now completely scared on going on it.
I gained about 10 pounds on Aleese and was very moody.
Will Marvelon be different Aleese?
Comment by KS — August 30, 2011 @ 9:27 am
Dear KS,
Marvelon will definitely be different from Alesse. Each birth control pill works differently for every girl so don’t let the testimonial scare you. I would advise you to stay on Marvelon for at least 3 months to give your body time to get adjusted to this pill.
Comment by Janine — August 30, 2011 @ 9:49 am
Dear Sir,
can you classifiy birthcontrol pills for me?i.e which one is used for breast feeding and for nonfeeding mothers?
i am looking forword to hearing from you
Comment by zainelabdein — August 31, 2011 @ 4:12 am
Dear Zainelabdein,
Women who are breastfeeding should not use hormonal birth control methods.
Comment by Janine — August 31, 2011 @ 9:33 am
Hello
I’ve bEen using marvelon religiously haven skipped and I take my pill in da mornings ,my boyfriend I had sex nd he came in me will I fall pregnant?
Comment by anna — September 5, 2011 @ 11:47 am
Hi!
I started my first pack ever of Marvelon 21 two days. I’ve never been on birth control before so I’m a little unsure about how it works. When can I have unprotected sex after starting this pill? Like when will I be able to not use another form of contraceptive when having sex?
Thanks
Comment by Megan — September 5, 2011 @ 10:55 pm
Dear Anna,
If you are taking the pill religiously, every single day at the same time of day, then you shouldn’t be pregnant. If you are worried, wait until the end of your pack for your period to come. If you get your period, you are not pregnant. If you didn’t get your period then you should get a home pregnancy test. If the test comes out positive, make an appointment with your doctor to get a more accurate pregnancy test to be sure.
Comment by Janine — September 6, 2011 @ 9:59 am
Dear Megan,
This depends on when you start your pill. If you started the pill with the Sunday start method (you start the pill on the Sunday of your period) then you can start having sex without a back up method (ie. condoms or spermicide) on the second week of the pills. If you did not start the pill with the Sunday start method, you should continue using back up birth control until you start your next pack of pills.
Comment by Janine — September 6, 2011 @ 10:09 am
I started using marvelon on the first day of my period. I have the 28 day pack. I was under the impression that i would not get my next period until I start the new pack. Its only been two weeks since the end of my last period and i have it again. Is that the way this pack is supposed to work?
Comment by jane — September 7, 2011 @ 7:47 am
Dear Jane,
You are supposed to get your period during the 7 inactive pills at the end of the pack (you first take 3 weeks of active pills and then 1 week of inactive pills). Your body is adjusting to the pill and spotting during the first 3 months of being on the pill is common.
Comment by Janine — September 7, 2011 @ 9:33 am
Hey guys, I’ve been taking marvelon 28 for almost a month (for my first time), and within the first week of taking it had unprotected sex. Today will be my third ‘ sugar pill ‘ from my pack and I have yet to get my period. I started taking marvelon the day of my period, and three weeks seems awfully fast to havet it again.. But I’m still worried, could I be pregnant? Or should I wait until I’ve finished my sugar pills and start a new pack to worry?
Comment by Worried.. — September 10, 2011 @ 12:50 pm
Dear Worried..,
If this is your first time taking the pill then it is normal to not have your period on the first month. Or it could be really late or light. Definitely finish your sugar pills and start the next pack. If your period does not come the next pack, you can take a home pregnancy test if you are worried.
Comment by Janine — September 12, 2011 @ 9:42 am
Hey! I’m on marvelon 21! I’m on my first pack and I started on Sunday, but it wasn’t the Sunday of my period. I was planning on taking the pill continuously for 3 packages straight. (My doctor told me that it would be safe.)My honeymoon is coming up.
I was just wondering when I would be able to have sex without using a back up method like condoms or spermicide without the risk of getting pregnant! Thanks!
Comment by Twigs — September 18, 2011 @ 10:16 pm
Dear Twigs,
If you started the pack on the Sunday of your period, you should be protected and if no pills were ever missed, you can have unprotected sex. But because you didn’t start the pill on the Sunday of your period, then I would recommend you to have your period after the first month of being on the pack so you know for sure you are not pregnant on the first month of being on the pills. When you start the next pack, you can then take 3 packs straight without getting your period at all and have unprotected sex if no pills were ever missed. Have fun on your honeymoon!
Comment by Janine — September 19, 2011 @ 9:10 am
hi girls .. i have a question … i have been on marvelon 28 for 2 years and iam getting married in 4 months ..and we want to try and get pregnant soon after our wedding …so after my last period i just never went back on it .. i started my last period on August 30 and it went to about september 6 or so … and it is now the 5th of october and still no period .. iam very regular so its freaking me out .. i took 2 pregnancy test and they both came back nagative what should i do ??
Comment by Meggie — October 5, 2011 @ 6:44 am
Dear Meggie,
Don’t panic. If your pregnancy tests say you are not pregnant then you are most likely not pregnant. To get a more accurate test, you can go to your doctor and get another pregnancy test just in case. You got a period at the end of your last pack because that’s what your body is accustomed to over the last 2 years but after that last pack your body is trying to get back to its own rhythm and it will take up to 3 months for your body to get back to normal. This is why it is recommended to wait about 3 months after you stop the pack for your body to get back to normal before you start trying. For more information in getting yourself and your body prepared, make an appointment with your doctor and he/she would be able to answer some of your questions. Congratulations on your marriage, Meggie!
Comment by Janine — October 5, 2011 @ 10:52 am
I am getting my period in about a week. I want to start Marvelon 21 today. Will it work to miss my period if I started today? I was surprised with a weekend away and I don’t want to get my period. I am a gay woman so I’m not worried about getting pregnant. Help!!
Comment by Jen — October 6, 2011 @ 2:42 am
Dear Jen,
Yes! You can most definitely start on your pill today. Happy weekend getaway
Comment by Janine — October 6, 2011 @ 9:33 am
Forgot to drink 2 tablets, on the third day I drank 3 tablets.Is that ok?what will happen?
Comment by Faith — October 28, 2011 @ 4:24 am
Dear Faith,
You may have some breakthrough bleeding. Carry on with taking your birth control pills until the end of the pack. Try not to forget anymore pills!
Comment by Janine — October 28, 2011 @ 1:49 pm
can i have sex with my husband?I mean will I get pregnant if ever?
Comment by Faith — October 28, 2011 @ 9:26 pm
Will I not get pregnant if we have intercourse with my husband?
Comment by Faith — October 29, 2011 @ 6:13 am
Dear Faith,
If you are consistently taking the Marvelon pill every single day around the same time each day, you will be protected from pregnancy. Although birth control pills are only 99% effective if taken properly every single day without ever missing a pill, there is still a 1% chance that you could get pregnant.
Comment by Janine — October 31, 2011 @ 11:34 am
Hey there, I’m on another birth control and switching to marvelon once I finish my current pack. Should I take marvelon after my period cuz that’s what I do with my other birth control.
Comment by Casey — November 9, 2011 @ 8:28 am
Dear Casey,
Yes, start taking the Marvelon after your period or otherwise as instructed by your doctor who prescribed you Marvelon.
Comment by Janine — November 9, 2011 @ 12:10 pm
Hello
wondering if i can start taking it a week before my period and continue taking it in order to move my period date?
thanks
Comment by aud — December 8, 2011 @ 8:41 pm
Dear aud,
Yes you can! One of the perks of being on these pills is to control when you want to have your period
Comment by Janine — December 9, 2011 @ 9:52 am
Hi, i’ve been using marvelon 28 for 14 days now, i started it on my second day of period.i’m planning to have an unprotected sex with my boyfriend. do you think i’m already protected…and one more thing, i want to skip my period by not taking the inactive pills and taking the second pack directly..do you think i would still be protected? thank you so much for ur help:)
Comment by Joanne — December 26, 2011 @ 7:09 pm
Dear Joanne,
Since you started the pills on the second day of your period, you should be protected. If you want to skip the inactive pills, you should still be protected as well.
Comment by Janine — January 4, 2012 @ 3:59 pm
I had my first day of period on the 17th,so I took the pill. Then on the 25th, I forgot to take a pill and I had unprotected sex.On 26th, I took 2 pills but it was already late in the afternoon. Am I still protected? I still did not have my period today and I am on the 24th pill already (the small ones)
Comment by Marie — January 10, 2012 @ 5:12 pm
Dear Marie,
Since you doubled up on the next day, you should be fine. You may not have had your period yet because it’s only your first month of being on the pill. Your body takes up to 3 months to get adjusted to the pill and during those first three months you will notice changes in your period (ie. heavier, lighter, no period, etc).
Comment by Janine — January 11, 2012 @ 9:58 am
Thanks.Is that still true when I stopped being on the pill for a month and few weeks then I resumed only last Dec 17th? There was no intercourse though that happened during those days before Dec 17
Comment by Marie — January 11, 2012 @ 4:06 pm
Dear Marie,
During the month and a few weeks you were off the birth control you were not protected from pregnancy – but if you didn’t have sex during that time you were off the pill then you should not be pregnant. You are only protected from pregnancy during the times you are on the pill or when you are not having sex.
Comment by Janine — January 12, 2012 @ 9:09 am
Before taking Marvelon I was on another 21 day pill which I was a bit messed up with and started taking Marvelkn without a break on what would have been day 20 of the pack. The doctor told me that this should be fine but I decided to use condoms with my partner for 7 days anyway. (one time during that week we started having sex and then remembered and stopped) then after that week a couple of times I took my pills late ( maybe 5 hours late one day and then 8 hours the next) we have had lots of sex without a condom and now I’m 3 days ino my break and with no period. Is that normal or should I be worried?
Comment by Mel — January 14, 2012 @ 2:07 pm
Dear Mel,
Your period has not come yet because your body may be adjusting to the new pills. You can wait for your next period but if you are worried, take a pregnancy test.
Comment by Janine — January 16, 2012 @ 9:28 am
I have been taking marvelon 21 for the last 8 months and have always taking it on time but this month i missed one pill but i took it the next day right away. I always use condoms during intercourse and according to him he checks every time and it didn’t break. I’m a day late on my period and i’m freaking out. could i be pregnant or is it just the stress of school holding it off? answer ASAP thanks
Comment by Lindsay — January 19, 2012 @ 10:03 am
Dear Lindsay,
Stress can definitely cause your period to be late. If you are worried that you may be pregnant, take a pregnancy test.
Comment by Janine — January 19, 2012 @ 12:03 pm