- Females of childbearing potential (FCBP) must have a negative serum or urine pregnancy test within 10 - 14 days prior to and again within 24 hours prior to starting REVLIMID® and must either commit to continued abstinence from heterosexual intercourse or begin TWO acceptable methods of birth control, one highly effective method and one additional effective method AT THE SAME TIME, at least 28 days before she starts taking REVLIMID®. FCBP must also agree to ongoing pregnancy testing.