Birth Control Pills: Risks, Side Effects, and Pregnancy Concerns

Oral contraceptives

I would like to ask the doctor, I have been taking birth control pills for almost four months (my last period started on March 23 and ended on March 27).
On the seventh day of the fourth month (April 2), I decided to stop taking the pills suddenly (because I felt side effects and my stomach was not very comfortable).
However, on March 29, my boyfriend had contact with me, but I’m not sure if it was with my vagina or urethra (he did not penetrate).
We also had sexual intercourse with a condom on March 29 and April 1.
I’m unsure if this could lead to pregnancy.
Afterward, because I was worried, I took two birth control pills on April 4 and 5, and then one pill on April 6 (I felt dizzy during these days).
Starting from April 4, I noticed some brown spotting, but it was not much, just a little.
Should I continue taking the pills for this month, or would it be better for my body to stop taking them now?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/04/06

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the number of pills in each type of combined oral contraceptive varies, and it is important to take the 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.
Additionally, even if ejaculation does not occur, there is still a chance of pregnancy because pre-ejaculatory fluid may contain sperm.
The effectiveness of condoms is not 100%, with a failure rate of over 5%.
Therefore, if your period is more than a week late, it is recommended to take a pregnancy test.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2021/04/06

More Info

When it comes to understanding birth control pills, it's essential to consider the various aspects, including their risks, side effects, and the potential for pregnancy. Birth control pills, also known as oral contraceptives, are a popular method for preventing pregnancy. They work primarily by inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and thinning the uterine lining to prevent implantation.

In your case, you mentioned taking birth control pills for nearly four months and then deciding to stop after experiencing some side effects, particularly gastrointestinal discomfort. It's not uncommon for individuals to experience side effects when starting or stopping hormonal contraceptives, which can include nausea, headaches, mood changes, and irregular bleeding. If these side effects are bothersome, it's advisable to consult with your healthcare provider to discuss alternative contraceptive methods or adjustments to your current regimen.

Regarding the potential for pregnancy, you indicated that you had unprotected contact with your boyfriend on March 29 and then used condoms on April 1. Since you had been taking the birth control pills consistently until you stopped on April 2, your risk of pregnancy from the earlier encounter is relatively low, especially if you were compliant with the pill regimen prior to stopping. However, it's important to note that once you discontinue the pills, your body may take some time to return to its natural hormonal cycle, which can affect ovulation and increase the risk of pregnancy if you engage in unprotected intercourse.

The brown discharge you experienced starting April 4 could be a sign of withdrawal bleeding, which is common after stopping birth control pills. This type of bleeding can occur as your body adjusts to the hormonal changes. If you are concerned about the irregular bleeding or if it persists, it would be wise to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

As for your question about whether to continue taking the pills for the rest of the month or stop them altogether, this decision should be based on your comfort level with the side effects and your contraceptive needs. If you are feeling unwell and believe that continuing the pills may exacerbate your symptoms, it may be reasonable to stop. However, if you are concerned about the risk of pregnancy, you might consider completing the current pack before discontinuing, as this can help regulate your cycle and minimize potential irregularities.

In summary, while birth control pills are effective for preventing pregnancy, they can come with side effects that may lead individuals to reconsider their use. If you have concerns about pregnancy or the side effects you are experiencing, it is crucial to have an open discussion with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current situation, ensuring that you make an informed decision about your reproductive health.

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