Contraceptive pill issues
Hello Doctor: I have been taking the oral contraceptive pill (Kiryian) for three months.
I was supposed to finish the last pack by May 14, but I forgot to bring the pills home when I returned on May 10, so I missed the last four pills.
My period started on the morning of May 14.
I began a new pack of pills on May 18, which was the fifth day of my period.
I would like to ask: 1.
Is there still contraceptive effectiveness? 2.
If I had sexual intercourse with ejaculation on May 22, is there a risk of pregnancy? Thank you for your response.
An An, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/05/23
Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the questioner: It is important to take additional contraceptive precautions during the first seven days after restarting the medication.
If you do not experience the expected withdrawal bleeding after taking the contraceptive pill, you should suspect the possibility of pregnancy.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.
Reply Date: 2024/05/23
More Info
When it comes to understanding birth control pills, their effectiveness, and associated risks, it's essential to consider several factors, including how the pills work, the timing of use, and any potential interactions with other medications.
Effectiveness of Birth Control Pills
Birth control pills, like the one you mentioned (祈麗安), are designed to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and thin the uterine lining, making it difficult for sperm to fertilize an egg. When taken correctly, they are over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, their effectiveness can be compromised if doses are missed or if they are not taken consistently.
Missed Doses and Timing
In your case, you mentioned that you forgot to take the last four pills of your previous pack. Missing pills can reduce the effectiveness of the birth control method. The general recommendation is that if you miss one pill, you should take it as soon as you remember and continue taking the rest of the pills as scheduled. If you miss two or more pills, the guidance may vary depending on the specific pill you are using, but typically, you should use backup contraception (like condoms) for at least seven days after missing multiple pills.
Since you started a new pack on the fifth day of your period (5/18), you may have some protection against pregnancy, but it is crucial to note that the full contraceptive effect may not be established immediately. Most guidelines suggest that if you start taking the pill during your period, you are protected from pregnancy right away. However, since you missed several pills before starting the new pack, it is advisable to use additional contraception (like condoms) for at least the first seven days of the new pack.
Risk of Pregnancy
Regarding your question about the risk of pregnancy after having unprotected sex on 5/22, it is possible that you could become pregnant, especially considering the missed pills. If you had unprotected intercourse during a time when the pill's effectiveness was compromised, there is a risk of pregnancy. If you are concerned about this, you may want to consider taking a home pregnancy test if your period is late or consult with your healthcare provider for further guidance.
Additional Considerations
It's also worth noting that certain medications can interact with birth control pills, potentially reducing their effectiveness. Antibiotics, for example, are often cited as a concern, although most do not significantly affect the pill. However, some specific antibiotics and other medications can interfere with hormonal contraceptives. Always inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are taking.
Conclusion
In summary, while birth control pills are an effective method of contraception, their effectiveness can be compromised by missed doses. Given your situation, it is advisable to use backup contraception for the first week of your new pack and to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice. If you have concerns about potential pregnancy or the effectiveness of your birth control method, don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for further evaluation and support.
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