Question

When are the oral contraceptive pills with steroidal preparations advised to be consumed for an effective contraceptive effect?

• A. Within the first five days following ovulation
• B. From the fifth day of onset of a menstrual cycle
• C. During menstruation
• D. Within first five days following implantation

Answer 1

The correct option is B From the fifth day of onset of a menstrual cycle

The oral contraceptive pills with steroidal preparations contain small doses of either progestogen only or a combination of progestogen-estrogen. There are many different formulations or brands, but the average pack is designed to be taken over a 28 day cycle.
The pills have to be taken from day 5 to day 25 of the current cycle. Then a gap of 7 days has to be maintained (day 26, 27, 28 of the current cycle and day 1, 2, 3, 4 of the next cycle). Then the same pattern has to be repeated again in the next cycle.
In an ideal 28 day cycle, ovulation occurs on day 14 (which comes in between day 5 and day 25). Thus we can see that the pills intake is started a lot before the day of ovulation has approached. The main purpose of the pill is to prevent ovulation.
The gap of 7 days that is maintained is the duration in which menstruation is supposed to happen. So, pills are not taken during menstruation.
There is no use of taking these pills after the implantation has occurred. It might cause several other complications. Also, the day of implantation can only be predicted. There is no way to be sure as to which day the implantation has actually occurred.