Missed Birth Control Pills: What to Do When Your Period Arrives - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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When it comes to missed birth control pills, it’s important to understand how to manage the situation effectively, especially when your period arrives unexpectedly. In your case, you’ve been on oral contraceptives for over a year and have recently missed two pills. Here’s a comprehensive guide on what to do next.

First, let’s address the missed pills. When you miss one or two pills, the general recommendation is to take the missed pill as soon as you remember. Since you missed two pills (on September 5 and 6), you did the right thing by taking both as soon as you realized. After missing two pills, it’s crucial to use backup contraception, such as condoms, for at least seven days to ensure you remain protected against unintended pregnancy.

Now, regarding your period arriving after missing those pills, it’s not uncommon for breakthrough bleeding or an early period to occur when you miss pills. This can happen due to the hormonal fluctuations caused by the missed doses. Since you’ve experienced this, it’s essential to evaluate your next steps carefully.

1. Continue Taking Your Pills: Since you’ve already taken the missed pills, you should continue taking the remaining pills in your current pack as scheduled. This helps maintain your hormone levels and reduces the risk of further irregular bleeding.

2. Next Pack: If your period continues, you can still start your next pack as scheduled after finishing the current one. It’s common for some women to experience changes in their menstrual cycle when they miss pills, but this doesn’t mean you should stop taking your contraceptive.
3. Monitoring Your Cycle: Keep track of your cycle and any unusual symptoms. If your period is significantly heavier or lasts longer than usual, or if you experience severe discomfort, it may be wise to consult your healthcare provider.

4. Backup Contraception: Since you missed two pills, it’s advisable to use backup contraception until you’ve taken your pills consistently for seven days after the missed doses. This ensures you are fully protected.

5. Consult Your Doctor: If you have any concerns about your menstrual cycle or the effectiveness of your birth control after missing pills, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and current situation.

6. Future Missed Pills: To prevent missing pills in the future, consider setting a daily alarm or using a pill organizer. Some women find it helpful to link taking their pill to another daily routine, such as brushing their teeth or having breakfast.

In summary, continue taking your pills as scheduled, monitor your cycle, and use backup contraception for a week. If you have further concerns or experience significant changes in your menstrual cycle, consult your healthcare provider for tailored advice. Remember, managing missed pills is common, and with the right steps, you can maintain effective contraception.