Can You Get Pregnant After Starting Birth Control Pills?

Start the fifth pack of birth control pills after your period?

After finishing the fourth pack of 21 contraceptive pills, I got my period on the fourth day, May 17, and it lasted for a total of 5 days until May 21.
I started the first pill of the fifth pack on May 21, but after taking the second pill the next night, I had unprotected intercourse with ejaculation.
Is there a chance of getting pregnant?

Hey, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/05/30

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the effectiveness of combination oral contraceptives can reach 99% when taken correctly.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Chang.

Reply Date: 2019/05/30

More Info

When it comes to the question of whether you can get pregnant after starting birth control pills, the answer is generally no, provided that the pills are taken correctly and consistently. Birth control pills, when taken as directed, are highly effective at preventing pregnancy. However, there are several factors to consider that can influence their effectiveness.

Firstly, it’s important to understand how birth control pills work. They primarily prevent ovulation, which means that no egg is released for sperm to fertilize. Additionally, they thicken the cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to enter the uterus, and they thin the uterine lining, reducing the likelihood of implantation should fertilization occur.

In your case, you mentioned that you completed your fourth pack of pills and started your fifth pack on May 21. You also indicated that you had unprotected intercourse on the night after taking the second pill of the new pack. If you have been taking your pills consistently and correctly (i.e., at the same time every day without missing any doses), the likelihood of becoming pregnant is very low.

However, there are a few important considerations:
1. Timing of the Pill: Birth control pills are most effective when taken at the same time every day. If you missed a pill or took it late, this could reduce its effectiveness.

2. Initial Start: If you started taking the pill for the first time, it typically takes about 7 days for the pill to become effective in preventing pregnancy. If you started the pill during your menstrual cycle, you may have been protected from the first day, but if you started it at another time, you would need to wait a week.

3. Antibiotics and Other Medications: Some medications can interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills. If you were taking any other medications, especially antibiotics, it’s important to check with your healthcare provider to see if they could affect the pill’s efficacy.

4. Gastrointestinal Issues: If you experienced vomiting or diarrhea shortly after taking the pill, this could also affect its absorption and effectiveness.

5. Breakthrough Bleeding: Sometimes, women experience breakthrough bleeding or spotting while on the pill, which can be mistaken for a period. This does not necessarily indicate that the pill is ineffective.

In conclusion, if you have been taking your birth control pills correctly and consistently, the chances of becoming pregnant after having unprotected intercourse on the second day of your new pack are very low. However, if you have concerns about potential pregnancy or if you missed any pills, it may be wise to take a pregnancy test or consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can provide you with the best guidance based on your specific situation and health history.
Lastly, if you are ever unsure about your birth control method or have questions about its effectiveness, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. They can help clarify any doubts and ensure that you are using the most effective method for your needs.

Similar Q&A

Can You Get Pregnant After Stopping Birth Control for a Week?

If there was unprotected intercourse on the first day after stopping the contraceptive pill for 7 days, and there are no plans to take birth control pills again for the next month, there is a possibility of becoming pregnant.

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
If there was unprotected intercourse on the first day after stopping the medication for 7 days, and there are no plans to take contraceptive pills again for the next month, will this result in pregnancy? Answer: This will not result in pregnancy.

Can You Get Pregnant During the 7-Day Break After Birth Control Pills?

If I have taken all 21 pills of the birth control pill on time, can I get pregnant if I have unprotected intercourse during the seven-day waiting period after finishing the pills?

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, you should be fine, so please don't worry. Wishing you good health.

Understanding Pregnancy After Birth Control: What to Expect

Hello, I would like to ask, I have been taking birth control pills for over a year, and recently I want to get pregnant, so I stopped taking the pills. Will I get pregnant right away? Will my menstrual cycle become irregular? If I get pregnant and have a baby, and then I don'...

Dr. Xu Junzheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
There is indeed a possibility of becoming pregnant immediately after stopping birth control pills. After giving birth, it is generally recommended to wait until after the postpartum period before resuming the medication. Thank you!

Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Birth Control for a Year?

If you have been taking oral contraceptives continuously for 12 months and then stop for one month, and in the 14th month you start taking oral contraceptives again (with 21 pills taken beforehand), the likelihood of pregnancy during the 14th month while engaging in sexual interc...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the inquirer: Combined oral contraceptives must be taken at the same time every day, and correct usage can achieve a 99% effectiveness rate in preventing pregnancy. However, if you are starting the contraceptive pill for the first time after stopping, it is recommended to ...