Birth Control Pills: Risks and Menstrual Irregularities

Contraceptive pill issues

If you are taking a 28-day birth control pill pack and have only 7 white pills left, but your period came early last month due to taking emergency contraception, and you continued to take the pills without a break, here are the answers to your questions:
1.
If you have unprotected intercourse during the week of the remaining 7 pills, there is still a risk of pregnancy, especially if you did not take the pills consistently or correctly.
However, if you have been taking your birth control pills as directed, the risk is generally low.
2.
Based on your entire situation, the likelihood of pregnancy is reduced if you have been taking your birth control pills consistently.
However, taking emergency contraception can affect your menstrual cycle, and if you have had unprotected intercourse, there is still a possibility of pregnancy.
3.
Yes, taking emergency contraception and continuing with your regular birth control can lead to irregularities in your menstrual cycle.
It is common for your period to be delayed or altered after taking emergency contraception.
If you have concerns about your specific situation, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/01/11

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

If you are taking a 28-day birth control pill pack and have 7 white pills left, but your period came early last month due to taking emergency contraception, and you continued to take the pills without a break, then if you take emergency contraception again on January 6 and your period still hasn't arrived after finishing this pack, you should continue to the next pack.
1.
If you have unprotected intercourse during the week with the remaining 7 pills, will you get pregnant? Answer: No, you will not get pregnant.
2.
Based on the entire situation, will you get pregnant? Answer: No, you will not get pregnant.
3.
Will this cause irregular periods? Answer: No, it will not cause irregular periods.

Reply Date: 2019/01/11

More Info

Understanding birth control pills and their effects on menstrual cycles can be quite complex, especially when considering the use of emergency contraception (the "morning-after pill") alongside regular contraceptive methods. Let's break down your questions and concerns regarding your current situation.

1. Continuing with the Birth Control Pills: If you have completed a full pack of birth control pills and your period has not arrived by the time you finish the pack, it is generally recommended to start the next pack as scheduled. Birth control pills work by maintaining consistent hormone levels in your body, which can help regulate your menstrual cycle. If you have taken emergency contraception, it can sometimes cause a delay in your menstrual cycle, but it does not negate the effectiveness of your regular birth control pills if taken correctly.

2. Risk of Pregnancy: If you have been taking your birth control pills consistently and correctly, the risk of pregnancy is significantly reduced, even if you have unprotected intercourse during the last week of your pill pack. However, if you missed any pills or took them inconsistently, the risk of pregnancy increases. Emergency contraception can also alter your menstrual cycle, but it is designed to prevent ovulation and thus reduce the likelihood of pregnancy if taken within the appropriate time frame after unprotected intercourse.

3. Menstrual Irregularities: It is not uncommon for your menstrual cycle to be disrupted after taking emergency contraception. This can result in a delayed period, lighter or heavier bleeding, or even skipped periods. The hormones in emergency contraception can cause temporary changes in your cycle, and these effects can vary from person to person. If you find that your period is significantly delayed (more than a week after your expected date), it may be advisable to take a pregnancy test to confirm whether or not you are pregnant.

In summary, based on your situation:
- Continue taking your birth control pills as scheduled, even if your period has not arrived.

- The risk of pregnancy is low if you have been consistent with your birth control, but any missed pills can increase that risk.

- Expect some irregularities in your menstrual cycle due to the use of emergency contraception, but if your period does not arrive after completing your current pack, consider taking a pregnancy test.

If you have further concerns or if your menstrual irregularities persist, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and current situation. It's important to have open communication with your healthcare provider about any changes in your menstrual cycle or concerns regarding pregnancy, as they can offer the best guidance tailored to your needs.

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