Can I Continue Taking Birth Control After Emergency Contraception?

Should I continue taking it?

I just took the first pack of my birth control pills on the third day of my period.
However, after taking the eighth pill, I accidentally had unprotected intercourse.
I'm worried that since I've only taken the pills for 7 days, the dosage may not be sufficient for contraception, so I took emergency contraception within 24 hours.
Can I continue taking my birth control pills? If I experience bleeding afterward, do I need to start a new pack of birth control pills?

Hui, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/09/20

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

You can continue taking the medication.
In case of bleeding, assess the amount of blood.
If it is a small amount, you can still continue.
However, if it is as much as a regular menstrual period, you must stop the medication, wait until it is completely cleared, and then take the next pack.
Sincerely, Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/09/20

More Info

When it comes to the use of birth control pills after taking emergency contraception, it's important to understand how these medications work and how they can interact with each other. Emergency contraception (EC), such as Plan B or other similar medications, is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. It is most effective when taken as soon as possible after the incident, ideally within 72 hours, but some forms can be taken up to five days later.

In your case, since you have already started taking your regular birth control pills and then took emergency contraception after a contraceptive mishap, you can continue taking your birth control pills as prescribed. The emergency contraception does not interfere with the effectiveness of your ongoing birth control regimen. In fact, continuing your regular birth control pills is crucial because they help maintain consistent hormone levels in your body, which is important for preventing ovulation and ensuring effective contraception.

However, it is common for some women to experience irregular bleeding or spotting after taking emergency contraception, especially if they are also on hormonal birth control. This can be confusing, but it is usually not a cause for concern. If you do experience bleeding after taking the emergency contraception, it does not mean that you need to stop taking your regular birth control pills or start a new pack. You should continue taking your birth control pills as directed.

If you experience any significant changes in your menstrual cycle or if you have concerns about the effectiveness of your birth control after taking emergency contraception, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and current situation.

In summary, you can continue taking your regular birth control pills after using emergency contraception. If you experience bleeding, you do not need to start a new pack of birth control pills; just continue with your current regimen. Always keep an open line of communication with your healthcare provider regarding any concerns or questions about your contraceptive methods. They can help ensure that you are using the most effective and appropriate methods for your individual needs.

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