I read online that if I start the pill within 5 days of the start of my period, that I will be protected right away—is this true or what effect does this have if I take it as soon as possible?

Theoretically, you are covered if you start within 5 days of the 1st day of your period. But to be safe, we recommend using a back up for 1 month. People engaging in sex should always consider using a condom to protect against sexually transmitted diseases. And for women, it’s cleaner to use a condom because no leaking of fluid for the next 24 hrs after sex.