Can Taking Birth Control Pills Lead to Pregnancy? Common Concerns Explained

Will taking the contraceptive pill before intercourse lead to pregnancy?

Hello, doctor.
This is my first month on the contraceptive pill, specifically 28 tablets of Loestrin, which I started taking on the first day of my menstrual period.
I had unprotected intercourse starting on the eighth day and have done so several times since, but I have taken my medication on time, with a maximum delay of one hour.
However, I later read online that I should take the pill for a full month, and I have been experiencing some unusual symptoms that make me anxious.

So I would like to ask:
1.
What is the likelihood of me being pregnant under these circumstances?
2.
I still have two weeks until my next period, but I have had brown discharge for three to four consecutive days, along with a small amount of blood.
Is this more likely due to the contraceptive pill or implantation bleeding?
3.
Besides the abnormal discharge, I experienced breast tenderness yesterday, which has improved significantly today.
Given these symptoms, what is the likelihood of me being pregnant? I plan to buy a pregnancy test in a few days, but I am worried about the accuracy and may wait over a week.
I am really anxious and scared in the meantime, so I wanted to consult with you.
Thank you for your help.

Yang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/09/17

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

A physician must personally examine a patient before administering treatment, prescribing medication, or providing a diagnosis.

Hello, the combined oral contraceptive (COC) must be taken at the same time every day, and proper usage can achieve a 99% effectiveness rate in preventing pregnancy.
During the usage period, if menstruation occurs or there is bleeding, there is no need to stop taking the medication; it should be continued as scheduled.
Once the body adjusts to the contraceptive, abnormal bleeding should cease.
However, if irregular bleeding persists for more than three months or if there is heavy bleeding, it is advisable to consult a physician for guidance.
Additionally, early pregnancy may not present specific symptoms, and subjective symptoms cannot be used to make a determination.
It is recommended that if symptoms persist or worsen, a physician should be consulted for diagnosis, treatment, or to check for potential contraceptive failure.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Chang

Reply Date: 2017/09/17

More Info

Taking birth control pills, such as the one you mentioned (Loestrin), is a common method of contraception that is designed to prevent pregnancy when taken correctly. However, there are several factors to consider regarding your concerns about the possibility of pregnancy while on the pill.

1. Pregnancy Probability: If you have been taking your birth control pills consistently and correctly, the likelihood of becoming pregnant is significantly reduced. Birth control pills are about 91% to 99% effective, depending on adherence to the regimen. Since you started taking the pills on the first day of your period and have taken them as directed, your risk of pregnancy is low. However, no contraceptive method is 100% effective, and factors such as missed doses or interactions with other medications can affect efficacy.

2. Brown Discharge and Light Bleeding: The brown discharge you are experiencing could be a side effect of the birth control pills. It is not uncommon for women to experience spotting or breakthrough bleeding, especially during the first few months of starting a new contraceptive method. This can manifest as light brown or pink discharge, which is often just old blood being expelled from the body. On the other hand, implantation bleeding, which occurs when a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining, can also cause light spotting. However, since you have been taking your pills correctly, it is more likely that the discharge is related to the hormonal changes caused by the birth control rather than implantation bleeding.

3. Breast Tenderness: Breast tenderness is another common side effect of hormonal birth control. It can occur due to the hormonal fluctuations that the body experiences when starting a new contraceptive. While breast tenderness can also be an early sign of pregnancy, in your case, it is likely related to the hormonal changes from the pill.
Given your concerns, it is understandable to feel anxious about the possibility of pregnancy, especially with the symptoms you are experiencing. Here are some additional points to consider:
- Timing of Testing: If you are considering taking a pregnancy test, it is best to wait until after your expected period for the most accurate result. Home pregnancy tests are generally reliable when taken after a missed period.

- Consulting a Healthcare Provider: If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you continue to feel anxious about the possibility of pregnancy, it may be beneficial to consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and may suggest further evaluation if necessary.

- Understanding Side Effects: Familiarizing yourself with the common side effects of birth control pills can help alleviate some anxiety. Many women experience irregular bleeding or spotting during the first few months of use, and these symptoms often resolve as the body adjusts to the hormones.

In summary, while the risk of pregnancy is low if you are taking your birth control pills correctly, it is important to monitor your symptoms and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns. Understanding the normal side effects of the pill can help you feel more at ease as you navigate this new phase of your reproductive health.

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