Missed Birth Control Pills: Should You Stop or Continue?

If you miss a dose of birth control pills, do you need to stop taking them if you've been using them long-term?

Hello, Doctor.
I have been taking the oral contraceptive pill - Alesse for about 3 years, and I have been taking it on time.
This month, I was supposed to start the next pack on July 19, but I just realized today that I misremembered the date and have not taken the pill yet.
I would like to ask if I should wait for my next menstrual period to continue taking the next pack, or can I start taking it now? Does the period of not taking the contraceptive pill still provide contraceptive protection? If I have sexual intercourse during this time, should I use additional contraceptive measures? Additionally, I would like to ask if I need to stop taking the pill after 3 years of continuous use.
If so, how long should I stop? Thank you very much for your time and assistance!

j, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/28

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, continue taking the birth control pills, but also use additional contraceptive measures.
After finishing this pack of pills, start the next pack on the fifth day of your menstrual period.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/07/28

More Info

When it comes to missed birth control pills, it's essential to understand how to manage the situation effectively to maintain contraceptive efficacy and ensure your reproductive health. Based on your description, you've been consistently taking the birth control pill for three years, which indicates a good adherence to your regimen. However, missing a pill can raise concerns about potential pregnancy and the need for alternative contraceptive methods.

Firstly, if you have missed a pill, the general recommendation is to take the missed pill as soon as you remember. If you realize the missed pill on the same day, take it immediately, and then continue with your regular schedule. If you missed it for more than 24 hours, the guidance can vary slightly depending on the type of pill you are taking (combination or progestin-only). For combination pills, if you miss one pill, you can take it as soon as you remember and continue with the pack as usual. However, if you miss two or more pills, you should follow the instructions provided in your pill pack, which usually advises you to take the last missed pill and discard the others. In this case, you may need to use a backup method of contraception, such as condoms, for the next seven days.

Regarding your specific situation, since you mentioned that you missed taking your pill on July 19 and only realized it now, you should take the missed pill immediately and continue with the rest of the pack. If you had unprotected sex during the time you missed the pill, there is a possibility of pregnancy, and using a backup method until you have taken the pills consistently for seven days is advisable.

As for whether you should stop taking the pills, it depends on your personal health goals and any potential side effects you may be experiencing. If you are considering stopping the pill, it is generally recommended to consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and any symptoms you may have. If you decide to stop, there is no specific waiting period; you can stop taking the pills at any time. However, be aware that your fertility may return quickly after discontinuation, so if you are not planning to conceive, you should consider alternative contraceptive methods.

In summary, if you miss a birth control pill, take it as soon as you remember, and continue with your regular schedule. If you miss multiple pills, follow the specific instructions for your pill type and consider using backup contraception. If you are contemplating stopping the pill, consult your healthcare provider for tailored advice. Remember, maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider about your contraceptive needs and any concerns is crucial for your reproductive health.

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