Can You Get Pregnant While Taking Birth Control Pills?

Can I get pregnant?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my current situation.
I have just taken the first pack of Marvelon (21 pills), starting on June 25, and I have taken 16 pills by now (as of July 10).
During this period, I had unprotected intercourse on July 1, July 2, and July 10, but there was no ejaculation.
I will finish one cycle on July 16, and I expect my period to come between July 17 and July 23.
According to the app, July 10 is my fertile window.
I have been taking the pills consistently, no later than one hour past the scheduled time.
What is the likelihood of pregnancy? Should I take a pregnancy test? If so, when would be the best time to test? If I am on birth control pills, is the chance of conception during ovulation still high? Thank you for your answers.

Kong Kong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/07/11

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Currently, I have just taken the first pack of Meliane (21 pills), starting with the first pill on June 25.
As of now, July 10, I have taken 16 pills.
During this period (July 1, July 2, and July 10), there was unprotected intercourse, but no ejaculation occurred.
I will finish one cycle on July 16, and I expect my period to arrive sometime between July 17 and July 23.
According to the app, July 10 is within the fertile window.
I have taken the pills consistently, with no more than a one-hour delay.
What is the likelihood of pregnancy? Should I take a pregnancy test, and if so, when would be the best time to test?
Answer: The likelihood of pregnancy is low, and there is not much need to take a pregnancy test.
If you do decide to test, July 27 would be the best time.

2.
If I am taking birth control pills, is the chance of conception during the ovulation period still high?
Answer: Taking birth control pills will suppress ovulation, so the chance of conception is very low.

Reply Date: 2018/07/11

More Info

When it comes to the question of whether you can get pregnant while taking birth control pills, the answer is generally no, provided that the pills are taken correctly and consistently. Birth control pills, such as the one you mentioned (Mireille), are designed to prevent ovulation, which means that if taken as directed, they significantly reduce the chances of becoming pregnant.

In your case, since you have been taking the pills consistently and on time, the likelihood of pregnancy is quite low. Birth control pills work by maintaining a steady level of hormones in your body, which prevents the ovaries from releasing eggs. Additionally, they also thicken the cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to reach any eggs that may be released.
However, there are a few important factors to consider:
1. Timing and Consistency: You mentioned that you have been taking the pills on time, which is crucial. Missing a pill or taking it late can increase the risk of ovulation and, consequently, the risk of pregnancy. Since you have been diligent about your pill regimen, this should provide you with a good level of protection.

2. Interactions with Other Medications: Certain medications can interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills. If you are taking any other medications, it's important to check with your healthcare provider to ensure they do not reduce the efficacy of your birth control.

3. Potential for Breakthrough Ovulation: While it is rare, there is still a small chance of breakthrough ovulation occurring even when taking the pill correctly. This is more likely to happen if you miss a dose or if the pill is not taken consistently.

4. Pregnancy Testing: If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, you can take a home pregnancy test. It is generally recommended to wait until at least the first day of your missed period for the most accurate results. Since you expect your period between the 17th and 23rd, testing around the 24th or 25th would be ideal if your period does not arrive as expected.

5. Ovulation and Fertility: Even with the use of birth control pills, it is important to understand that ovulation can still occur in some cases, especially if the pills are not taken correctly. However, the chances of getting pregnant during the time you are actively taking the pill are significantly reduced.

In summary, if you have been taking your birth control pills correctly, the chances of becoming pregnant are very low. If you have any concerns or experience any unusual symptoms, it is always best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance. They can provide you with the most accurate information based on your specific situation and health history.

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