What to Do If You Missed a Birth Control Pill Over Three Days?

If you missed taking a birth control pill more than three days ago, it is recommended to take the missed pill as soon as you remember. If you have missed more than one pill, take the most recent missed pill and discard any earlier missed pills. Continue taking the remaining pills at your regular schedule. It is also advisable to use a backup contraceptive method, such as condoms, for at least

Your girlfriend discovered that she missed taking a birth control pill a few days ago (more than three days ago), estimating that she missed one pill among the 12 pills taken before her cycle.
She also had unprotected intercourse with ejaculation in the last two days.
Currently, there are 6 pills left in this cycle.
What would be the most appropriate course of action for her situation? Should she continue taking the remaining birth control pills, take emergency contraception, or wait to see if her period comes after the pill-free interval for confirmation? Thank you!

Ego, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/01/28

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, if you miss taking an effective contraceptive 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 seven days.
If the missed pill is more than 24 hours late, you should stop taking the current contraceptive pills for seven days (including the days you missed) and then continue with the next cycle.
If you miss a pill and do not experience the expected withdrawal bleeding during the subsequent pill-taking period, you should suspect the possibility of pregnancy.
If necessary, you should consult a physician for evaluation.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2023/01/28

More Info

If you have missed a birth control pill for more than three days, especially in the first half of your cycle, it is important to take immediate action to minimize the risk of unintended pregnancy. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you should do in this situation:
1. Assess the Situation: Since you mentioned that you missed a pill in the first half of your cycle and have had unprotected intercourse, it’s crucial to understand that missing pills can significantly reduce the effectiveness of your birth control method. The risk of pregnancy increases, particularly if you missed pills during the time when ovulation is likely to occur.

2. Take the Missed Pill: If you remember that you missed a pill, take it as soon as you remember. If you missed more than one pill, take the most recent missed pill immediately and discard any earlier missed pills. Do not double up on pills if you are close to the time of your next scheduled dose.

3. Use Backup Contraception: Given that you have had unprotected intercourse during the time you missed your pills, it is advisable to use a backup method of contraception, such as condoms, for at least the next seven days. This is especially important if you missed pills during the first week of your cycle.

4. Consider Emergency Contraception: Since you mentioned having unprotected intercourse, you might want to consider taking emergency contraception (like Plan B or Ella) if it has been within 72 to 120 hours since the unprotected sex. Emergency contraception is most effective the sooner you take it after unprotected intercourse.

5. Continue Your Birth Control: After addressing the missed pills and considering emergency contraception, continue taking your birth control pills as scheduled. If you have missed more than three pills, it may be advisable to skip the current cycle and start fresh with a new pack after your next period, but consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

6. Monitor for Withdrawal Bleeding: If you stop taking the pills, you should expect your withdrawal bleeding (similar to a period) within a week after stopping the pills. If you do not have a withdrawal bleed after a week, consider taking a pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy.

7. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: It’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially if you are unsure about your situation or if you have any concerns about potential pregnancy. They can provide guidance on the best course of action based on your specific circumstances.

8. Future Prevention: To avoid missing pills in the future, consider setting reminders on your phone or using a pill organizer. Some individuals find it helpful to take their pills at the same time every day to establish a routine.

In summary, if you have missed a birth control pill for more than three days and have had unprotected intercourse, take the missed pill as soon as you remember, use backup contraception, consider emergency contraception if applicable, and continue with your birth control regimen. Always consult with a healthcare provider for tailored advice and to ensure you are taking the right steps for your reproductive health.

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