Does Taking Two Birth Control Pills in One Day Affect Effectiveness?

Overuse of premedication?

Doctor, I have been taking the 21-pill formulation of the contraceptive pill, Wenbunin.
However, there was one day when I took the pill but forgot to record it.
Later, I saw a reminder on my phone and mistakenly thought I hadn't taken it, so I took another pill, resulting in me taking two pills in one day.
Will this higher dosage affect the contraceptive effectiveness? Is there a risk of contraceptive failure due to this?

Banna, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/04/08

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Taking the oral contraceptive pill "Wen Bu Ren 21" as prescribed, if you accidentally took an extra pill on the same day due to forgetting to record your previous dose, it will not reduce the contraceptive effectiveness.
The effectiveness of the contraceptive will not be compromised by a higher dosage, and it will not increase the risk of contraceptive failure.

Reply Date: 2018/04/08

More Info

Taking two birth control pills in one day can be concerning for many users, especially when it comes to the effectiveness of the contraceptive method. However, it's important to understand how oral contraceptives work and what happens when you accidentally take an extra pill.

First and foremost, if you accidentally take two pills in one day, it generally does not reduce the effectiveness of the birth control. Most combination oral contraceptives (COCs) contain hormones that prevent ovulation, and taking an extra pill does not negate this effect. In fact, the primary concern with taking two pills in one day is the potential for increased side effects rather than a decrease in contraceptive efficacy. Common side effects may include nausea, breast tenderness, and breakthrough bleeding, but these are usually temporary and resolve on their own.

The effectiveness of birth control pills is contingent upon consistent and correct usage. When taken as directed—one pill every day at the same time—COCs can be over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. If you miss a pill, the risk of pregnancy increases, particularly if you have unprotected intercourse during the missed pill period. In the case of taking two pills in one day, you should continue taking your pills as scheduled and not skip any doses. If you are concerned about missed pills or accidental double dosing, it’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Regarding the concern of hormonal overload from taking two pills, while it is not harmful in the short term, it is advisable to avoid making this a habit. Consistently taking more than the prescribed dose can lead to hormonal imbalances and unwanted side effects. If you find yourself frequently forgetting to take your pill, you might want to consider alternative methods of contraception that require less daily management, such as the contraceptive patch, ring, or long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) like IUDs.

In summary, taking two birth control pills in one day does not typically affect the contraceptive effectiveness negatively, but it can lead to increased side effects. If you have concerns about your birth control method or experience any unusual symptoms, it is best to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and help you manage your contraceptive needs effectively. Remember, maintaining a consistent routine with your birth control is key to ensuring its effectiveness and your peace of mind.

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