Missed Birth Control Pill on Day 5 of Menstrual Cycle: What to Do? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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When it comes to missed birth control pills, especially in the context of a combined oral contraceptive like the one you are using (Alesse), it's important to understand how to manage missed doses to maintain effective contraception.
In your case, you missed taking your birth control pill on the 5th day of your cycle, which is a critical time since you are just starting a new pack after the pill-free week. You took two pills the following evening (one for the missed day and one for that day), which is the correct action to take when you realize you've missed a dose. According to the general guidelines for combined oral contraceptives, if you miss one pill, you should take it as soon as you remember. If you remember on the same day, you can take both pills together.
Since you took the missed pill and the current day's pill together, you should still have contraceptive protection. However, it’s essential to consider the timing of your sexual activity. You mentioned that you will have unprotected intercourse on April 7, which is a few days after you missed the pill. The effectiveness of the pill can be slightly compromised if you miss a dose, especially if you have unprotected sex shortly after the missed pill.
The general recommendation is that if you miss a pill and take it as soon as you remember, you should still be protected. However, if you miss a pill and have unprotected sex within 7 days of missing it, you may want to consider using a backup method of contraception, such as condoms, until you have taken the pill consistently for 7 days after the missed dose.
In your specific situation, since you took the missed pill and the current pill on April 3, you should be protected by April 7, provided you continue to take the remaining pills in the pack on time. However, if you have any doubts or if you experience any unusual symptoms, it’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Additionally, if you find yourself frequently missing pills, it might be worth discussing with your doctor about alternative contraceptive methods that may be easier for you to manage, such as the contraceptive patch, ring, or long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) like IUDs or implants. These methods can provide reliable contraception without the need for daily adherence, which can sometimes be a challenge.

In summary, since you took the missed pill and the current day's pill together, you should be protected. However, if you have concerns about the effectiveness of your birth control due to the missed pill, using a backup method like condoms until you have taken your pills consistently for 7 days is a prudent approach. Always keep open communication with your healthcare provider regarding any concerns or questions about your contraceptive method.