Impact of Birth Control Pills on Gastroenteritis: Risks and Concerns

Birth control pills and medications for gastroenteritis?

I have been taking birth control pills for seven months consistently.
I usually start taking them on the fourth day of my period, but this month I started on the fifth day.
Will this affect their effectiveness? My period started on December 2nd, and I took the birth control pills regularly on the fifth day.
On December 22nd, I took my pill around 8 or 9 PM, but then vomited around 1 AM and did not take another pill.
I saw a doctor who diagnosed me with gastroenteritis and prescribed medication.
The medication prescribed by the doctor was taken one hour apart from the birth control pills.
Will this still provide contraceptive protection? Additionally, I had unprotected intercourse with my boyfriend from December 25th to 27th, and he ejaculated inside me.
Is there a risk of pregnancy? The medications I took were Buscopan and Spasmo-analgesic.
Is there a chance of becoming pregnant?

Jiajia, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/28

Dr. Huang Zifei reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Dear Jiajia,
It is acceptable to start taking the oral contraceptive pill on the fifth day; however, the presence of other medications may affect its concentration in the bloodstream.
In such cases, it is advisable to use dual contraception, which means taking the oral contraceptive along with the use of condoms.
If your period is delayed by a week, it is recommended to take a pregnancy test.
For any other concerns, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist.
Dr.
Huang Zifei, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nantou Hospital

Reply Date: 2020/12/28

More Info

The use of birth control pills (BCPs) is a common method for preventing pregnancy, and many women rely on them for their contraceptive needs. However, when it comes to gastrointestinal issues such as gastroenteritis, there are several factors to consider regarding the effectiveness of BCPs and the potential risks involved.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that BCPs work primarily by preventing ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and thinning the uterine lining. When taken consistently and correctly, they are highly effective in preventing pregnancy. However, certain factors can affect their efficacy, particularly gastrointestinal disturbances.

In your case, you mentioned that you have been taking BCPs regularly for seven months but missed taking your pill on the fourth day of your menstrual cycle and instead took it on the fifth day. Generally, starting the pill on the fifth day of your cycle is still within the acceptable range for contraceptive effectiveness, especially if you have been taking them consistently prior to this. However, it is always best to follow the instructions provided with your specific brand of BCP, as some may have different guidelines.

Regarding the incident on December 22, when you vomited after taking your BCP, it is crucial to consider the timing of the vomiting in relation to when you took the pill. If you vomited within two hours of taking the pill, it is possible that the pill did not have enough time to be absorbed into your system, which could reduce its effectiveness. Since you did not take a replacement pill after vomiting, this could pose a risk of unintended pregnancy, especially if you had unprotected intercourse shortly thereafter.

The medications you mentioned, Buscopan and Spasmo-Canulase (疏博痛), are typically used to relieve gastrointestinal discomfort and spasms. They do not have a direct impact on the effectiveness of BCPs. However, it is always advisable to consult with your healthcare provider about any potential interactions between medications, especially when dealing with gastrointestinal issues.

In summary, while the missed pill and subsequent vomiting could potentially affect the contraceptive effectiveness of your BCPs, the overall risk of pregnancy depends on several factors, including the timing of your pill intake, the timing of your vomiting, and whether you engaged in unprotected intercourse after these events. If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, it may be wise to take a home pregnancy test or consult with your healthcare provider for further guidance.

Additionally, if you experience ongoing gastrointestinal issues, such as gastroenteritis, it is essential to stay hydrated and follow your doctor's recommendations for treatment. Gastroenteritis can lead to dehydration, which can further complicate the effectiveness of BCPs if vomiting or diarrhea occurs. Always keep your healthcare provider informed about any changes in your health status, especially when it comes to medication management and contraceptive use.

In conclusion, while BCPs are generally effective, any disruption in their intake due to gastrointestinal issues can pose risks. It is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider regarding your contraceptive methods and any health concerns you may have.

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