What to Do If You Accidentally Take Birth Control Pills Early? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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If you accidentally take a birth control pill from the next pack after completing your 21-day regimen, it’s important to understand how to proceed to maintain effective contraception and avoid any potential side effects.

First, let’s clarify the typical regimen for combination birth control pills. After taking 21 active pills, you usually have a 7-day break during which you do not take any pills. This break allows for a withdrawal bleed, similar to a menstrual period. If you accidentally take a pill from the next pack on the 22nd day, you have essentially started a new cycle early.

Here’s what you should do next:
1. Continue Taking the Pills: Since you have taken one pill from the next pack, you should continue taking the active pills from that pack as scheduled. This means you will not take a break this month. Instead, you will take the active pills for a total of 28 days (21 from the first pack and 7 from the second pack).

2. Skip the 7-Day Break: After finishing the second pack, you can then take a 7-day break as usual. This means you will not take any pills for those 7 days, and you should expect a withdrawal bleed during this time.

3. Monitor for Side Effects: Taking an extra pill may lead to some side effects, such as nausea, breast tenderness, or changes in your bleeding pattern. These are generally mild and should resolve on their own. If you experience severe side effects or have concerns, consult your healthcare provider.

4. Contraceptive Effectiveness: Taking the extra pill does not significantly impact the effectiveness of your birth control. As long as you continue taking the pills as directed, you should remain protected against pregnancy.

5. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: If you have any doubts or specific health concerns, it’s always a good idea to reach out to your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and the specific type of birth control you are using.

In summary, if you accidentally take a birth control pill early, continue taking the active pills from the next pack without taking a break. After completing the second pack, take your usual 7-day break. Always keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider regarding any concerns or questions about your birth control method.