Missed Birth Control Pill: Concerns About Pregnancy Risk and Next Steps

Q: Missed Birth Control Pill: Concerns About Pregnancy Risk and Next Steps

Hello, <br>Your inquiry is addressed as follows： Each type of combination oral contraceptive comes in different pill counts and formulations, so it is important to take the contraceptive pills as directed. <br>If you forget to take a pill, you should take it as soon as you rememb

Missed one day of the oral contraceptive pill?

I have been on the contraceptive pill for over three months now, and I am currently on my fourth pack (Yaz).
However, I missed taking the third pill on 9/22 during the first week of the fourth pack.
I took two pills the next day on 9/23 and continued taking the pills normally afterward.
On 9/25, I had unprotected intercourse with ejaculation outside.
My last menstrual period started on 9/19.
I would like to ask the following questions:
1.
Since I missed a pill on 9/22 and had unprotected intercourse on 9/25, is there a risk of pregnancy?
2.
Because I am worried about pregnancy, I took emergency contraception on 9/25.
Should I continue taking the remaining pills in the fourth pack?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/09/25

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello,
Your inquiry is addressed as follows: Each type of combination oral contraceptive comes in different pill counts and formulations, so it is important to take the contraceptive pills as directed.
If you forget to take a pill, you should take it as soon as you remember, and continue taking the next pill at the usual time.
If you miss a dose of an active pill for more than 12 hours, in addition to taking the missed pill, it is advisable to use an additional barrier method of contraception for the next seven days.
If you miss a dose for more than 24 hours, you should stop taking the current pack of contraceptives and refrain from taking them for seven days (including the days you missed), then continue with the next cycle.
If you miss a pill and do not experience the expected withdrawal bleeding during the placebo week, you should consider the possibility of pregnancy.

Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.

Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2020/09/25

More Info

When it comes to missed birth control pills and the associated risks of pregnancy, it's important to understand how hormonal contraceptives work and the implications of missing a dose. Based on your situation, here are the answers to your questions:
1. Pregnancy Risk After Missing a Pill: You mentioned that you missed a birth control pill on September 22 and then had unprotected intercourse on September 25. The effectiveness of birth control pills can be compromised if you miss a dose, especially during the first week of a new pack. Since you missed the third pill in the first week and had unprotected sex shortly after, there is a potential risk of pregnancy. However, since you took two pills the following day (September 23), you mitigated some of that risk. Generally, if you miss a pill and have unprotected sex, it is advisable to take emergency contraception if you are concerned about pregnancy.

2. Continuing with Birth Control Pills After Taking Emergency Contraception: After taking emergency contraception, you should continue taking your regular birth control pills as scheduled. The emergency contraceptive will not affect the effectiveness of your ongoing birth control method. It is important to resume your regular pill regimen to maintain contraceptive protection. If you have any doubts or experience any unusual symptoms, consider consulting with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Additional Considerations:
- Understanding Birth Control Pill Efficacy: Birth control pills are highly effective when taken consistently and correctly. However, missing pills can reduce their effectiveness. If you miss one pill, you should take it as soon as you remember and continue with your regular schedule. If you miss two or more pills, the guidance may differ based on the type of pill you are using (combination vs. progestin-only).

- Emergency Contraception: Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. They are most effective when taken as soon as possible after the incident, ideally within 72 hours, but some types can be effective up to 5 days after unprotected sex.

- Monitoring for Pregnancy Symptoms: After a missed pill and unprotected intercourse, it’s wise to monitor for any early signs of pregnancy, such as missed periods, nausea, or breast tenderness. If your period is late, consider taking a home pregnancy test for confirmation.

- Consulting a Healthcare Provider: If you have ongoing concerns about missed pills, the effectiveness of your birth control, or potential pregnancy, it’s best to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide tailored advice based on your health history and contraceptive needs.

In summary, while there is a risk of pregnancy due to the missed pill and subsequent unprotected intercourse, taking emergency contraception and continuing with your regular birth control pills is the appropriate course of action. Always prioritize consistent use of your contraceptive method to minimize risks in the future.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Pregnancy Risks After Missed Birth Control Pills

Hello Dr. Wu, I took my first birth control pill on February 26. On the 7th day (March 4), I took the pill 7 hours late. On the 11th day (March 8), I forgot to take the pill and then took two pills on the 12th day (March 9). I had unprotected intercourse three times between the 7...

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. For pregnancy concerns, please take a home pregnancy test or consult a gynecologist for evaluation four weeks after sexual intercourse. 2. Failure to adhere to medication instructions prevents an accurate assessment of the treatment's effectiveness.

Missed Birth Control Pill: Risks and Remedies for Pregnancy Concerns

Hello Doctor, I discovered on July 16 that I missed one dose of my birth control pill, so I took two pills that day. However, I confirmed that I took my medication the day before (July 15) but I can't remember exactly which day I missed. In any case, I had missed a dose with...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, continue taking the contraceptive pills. If you're still concerned, you can take emergency contraception just in case. Wishing you good health.

Missed Birth Control Pill: Risk of Pregnancy Explained

You are currently taking your first pack of birth control pills, and the app indicates that you are in the ovulation risk period (around the time of the eighth pill). You had unprotected intercourse on that day, missed a pill the next day, and took two pills the following day, bu...

Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello Ms. K: It's hard to say whether you might be pregnant, but I recommend that you continue taking your birth control pills. Let's wait and see what happens after you finish the pills.

Missed Birth Control Pill: Impact on Pregnancy Risk and Next Steps

Hello, doctor! I would like to ask about missing a pill on March 31st. I had been taking my medication on time before that. I realized I missed it when I was about to take my medication on April 1st, so I took the missed pill along with the one for that day, making it a total of ...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low. Wishing you good health.