Can You Resume Birth Control Pills After a Break? Expert Advice

Oral contraceptives

Hello, according to the doctor's instructions, I started taking oral contraceptives (Yasmin) to regulate my menstrual cycle.
I took them for four days (starting on the fifth day of my period, and by the seventh day, my period had turned dark brown and was about to end).
After that, I forgot to take the pills and stopped for five days.
Today, my period has started again heavily.
Can I continue taking the pills directly?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/02

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, please start a new pack of contraceptive pills (Yaz).
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/12/02

More Info

When it comes to resuming birth control pills after a break, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. Birth control pills, or oral contraceptives, are designed to regulate hormonal levels in the body to prevent ovulation and manage menstrual cycles. However, missing doses can disrupt this regulation, leading to unexpected menstrual bleeding or changes in cycle patterns.

In your case, you started taking the birth control pill (specifically, the one you mentioned, "悅姿") on the fifth day of your menstrual cycle. After taking it for four days, you missed five doses. Now, you are experiencing a heavy menstrual flow again. The question is whether you can resume taking the pills immediately.

The general recommendation for missed doses of birth control pills is as follows:
1. If you miss one pill: Take it as soon as you remember. If you remember on the same day, you can continue with your regular schedule. If you remember the next day, take the missed pill and continue with your regular schedule, but use backup contraception for the next seven days.

2. If you miss two or more pills: If you miss two or more pills in a row during the first two weeks of the pack, take the most recent missed pill as soon as you remember, discard any other missed pills, and continue taking the rest of the pills as scheduled. However, you should use backup contraception for at least seven days.

3. If you miss pills in the third week: If you miss pills in the third week, you should skip the placebo pills and start a new pack immediately after finishing the active pills. This helps to prevent a withdrawal bleed.

Given that you missed five pills, it is advisable to take the most recent missed pill as soon as you remember, discard the others, and continue taking the remaining pills in the pack. However, since you are experiencing a heavy menstrual flow, it is likely that your body is responding to the hormonal changes and the missed doses.
Important Considerations:
- Consult Your Healthcare Provider: It is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider or a pharmacist regarding your specific situation. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and the specific formulation of the birth control pill you are using.

- Backup Contraception: Since you have missed several pills, it is advisable to use backup contraception (like condoms) for at least seven days after resuming the pills to ensure effective pregnancy prevention.

- Monitor Your Cycle: After resuming the pills, monitor your menstrual cycle closely. If you experience significant changes, such as prolonged heavy bleeding or severe discomfort, contact your healthcare provider.

In conclusion, while you can resume taking your birth control pills after a break, it is essential to follow the guidelines for missed doses and consult with a healthcare professional for tailored advice. This will help ensure that you maintain effective contraception and manage any menstrual irregularities that may arise from missed doses.

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