Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Birth Control Pills?

Can I get pregnant?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask if my girlfriend has been taking oral contraceptive pills regularly.
We had sexual intercourse on the second day of her menstrual period.
Is there still contraceptive protection on the second day of her period? Also, does the effectiveness of the oral contraceptive pills continue during the interval after taking the pills until the end of her menstrual period?

Zhe, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/07

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The function of emergency contraceptive pills is to inhibit ovulation.
After taking the emergency contraceptive pill, the period of amenorrhea until the end of menstruation does not lead to a rapid return of ovulation.
Engaging in sexual intercourse during this time still retains the contraceptive effect of the pill.
Sincerely, Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/10/07

More Info

When it comes to the effectiveness of birth control pills and the possibility of getting pregnant after taking them, it's essential to understand how these medications work and the timing of their use in relation to the menstrual cycle.

Birth control pills, commonly referred to as oral contraceptives, are designed to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and thin the uterine lining, making it less likely for a fertilized egg to implant. When taken correctly—meaning at the same time every day—these pills can be over 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

Regarding your question about the timing of sexual intercourse in relation to the menstrual cycle and the use of birth control pills, here are some key points to consider:
1. Timing of Intercourse: If your girlfriend is taking birth control pills consistently and correctly, she is protected from pregnancy even if you have intercourse during her menstrual period. The second day of her period is typically considered a safe time for unprotected sex if she has been taking her pills as directed.

2. Effectiveness During the Menstrual Cycle: Birth control pills are effective throughout the entire menstrual cycle, including during menstruation. The hormones in the pills work to prevent ovulation, which means that even if you have sex on the second day of her period, the chances of her getting pregnant are very low, provided she has been taking her pills consistently.

3. Missed Pills: If your girlfriend has missed any pills or has not taken them as prescribed, the effectiveness of the birth control may be compromised. In such cases, it is advisable to use a backup method of contraception, such as condoms, until she has taken the pills consistently for seven consecutive days again.

4. Post-Pill Pregnancy: If your girlfriend decides to stop taking the birth control pills, it is possible to become pregnant shortly after discontinuation. Some women may ovulate as soon as a few weeks after stopping the pills, while others may take a few months for their cycles to regulate. If she has been on the pill for an extended period, it might take some time for her body to return to its natural cycle.

5. Consulting a Healthcare Provider: If there are any concerns about the effectiveness of birth control or if your girlfriend experiences any irregularities in her menstrual cycle after stopping the pill, it is always a good idea to consult a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on her health history and current situation.

In summary, if your girlfriend has been taking her birth control pills correctly, she should be protected from pregnancy even if you have intercourse during her menstrual period. However, if there are any missed doses or concerns about the effectiveness of the pills, it is wise to consider additional contraceptive methods and consult with a healthcare professional for guidance.

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