Does Gastroenteritis Affect the Efficacy of Birth Control Pills?

Emergency contraceptive pills and gastroenteritis?

Hello doctor, I have been taking the oral contraceptive pill consistently and on time without missing any doses.
I finished the last pill of the third pack the day before New Year's Eve and stopped taking the pills for seven days to wait for my period.
However, during this time, I developed gastroenteritis.
When I started the fourth pack, I still had some symptoms of gastroenteritis, such as abdominal pain and mild diarrhea.
During this period, I had unprotected sexual intercourse and I am concerned whether the symptoms of gastroenteritis would affect the efficacy of the oral contraceptive pills.

Chen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/02/01

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, it generally does not have an impact, so please rest assured.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/02/01

More Info

Gastroenteritis, commonly known as stomach flu, can indeed raise concerns regarding the efficacy of birth control pills, particularly when symptoms such as diarrhea and vomiting are present. However, the impact of gastroenteritis on the effectiveness of birth control pills largely depends on the severity of the symptoms and the timing of the medication intake.

Birth control pills work by maintaining consistent hormone levels in the body, which prevents ovulation. For these pills to be effective, they must be taken as prescribed, without missing doses. If you have been taking your birth control pills consistently and have not missed any doses, the likelihood of reduced efficacy due to gastroenteritis is relatively low.
However, if gastroenteritis leads to severe vomiting or diarrhea, it could potentially affect the absorption of the hormones in the birth control pills. Most medical guidelines suggest that if vomiting occurs within two hours of taking a pill, or if severe diarrhea occurs (defined as three or more loose stools in 24 hours), the effectiveness of the pill could be compromised. In such cases, it is often recommended to use a backup method of contraception, such as condoms, until you are certain that the gastrointestinal symptoms have resolved and you can maintain consistent pill absorption.

In your situation, since you mentioned experiencing mild diarrhea and abdominal pain, it is essential to assess the severity of these symptoms. If your diarrhea is not severe and you are able to keep food and fluids down, your birth control pills should still be effective. However, if you experience worsening symptoms or if you are unable to retain the pills, it would be prudent to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Additionally, it is important to consider that gastroenteritis can lead to dehydration, which can further complicate your health. Staying hydrated is crucial, especially when experiencing gastrointestinal symptoms. Drinking clear fluids, such as water, broth, or electrolyte solutions, can help maintain hydration levels.

In summary, while gastroenteritis can potentially affect the efficacy of birth control pills, the impact largely depends on the severity of your symptoms and whether you have missed any doses. If you continue to experience symptoms or have concerns about your birth control effectiveness, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. They can provide tailored advice based on your specific situation and health history.

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