Can I Get Pregnant After Missing Birth Control Pills?

Can I get pregnant?

I took my first dose of the oral contraceptive pill (Marvelon, a 21-day cycle) on September 20.
My period started on October 16, and I began taking the second dose on October 20.
On October 23, my boyfriend ejaculated inside me without a condom.
What is the likelihood of pregnancy in this situation?

Hsu Ting-Ting, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/10/23

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the situation you described can be managed in this way.
Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) must be taken at the same time every day.
When taken correctly, they can achieve a 99% effectiveness in preventing pregnancy.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and good health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2020/10/23

More Info

When it comes to the effectiveness of birth control pills, timing and consistency are crucial. Birth control pills, such as the 21-day cycle pill you mentioned (like Marvelon), work best when taken at the same time every day. If you miss a pill or start taking them inconsistently, the risk of unintended pregnancy increases.

In your case, you took your first pill on September 20 and had your period on October 16. You then started your second pack on October 20, which means there was a gap between the end of your first pack and the beginning of your second pack. During this gap, especially if you had unprotected intercourse on October 23, there is a possibility of pregnancy.
The general guideline is that if you miss a pill or start a new pack late, you should use backup contraception (like condoms) for at least seven days after resuming the pill. Since you started your second pack on October 20 and had unprotected intercourse on October 23, you were not fully protected at that time. Therefore, the risk of pregnancy exists.

If you are concerned about the possibility of being pregnant, you might consider taking a home pregnancy test. These tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period. If you have any symptoms of pregnancy or if your period is late, it's advisable to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

In addition, if you find yourself frequently missing pills or having concerns about your birth control method, it may be worth discussing alternative contraceptive options with your healthcare provider. There are various methods available, including long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) like IUDs or implants, which can provide effective contraception without the need for daily attention.

In summary, while there is a risk of pregnancy due to the missed pill and unprotected intercourse, taking a pregnancy test and consulting with a healthcare provider will give you the best guidance moving forward. It's essential to stay informed about your contraceptive methods and to communicate openly with your partner about family planning.

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