Birth Control Pills: Effectiveness and Usage Tips

Question about contraceptive pills?

I would like to ask, I have been taking a 28-day oral contraceptive pill.
When my period started, I did not take the white pills on the first day but waited until around the third day to start taking the white pills, and then I followed the dates on the pill pack.
Now I am on the 16th day of the cycle.
Is there still contraceptive effectiveness? I have not been very careful and accidentally missed a pill.
Do I need to stop taking the pills and wait until my next period to restart? If I am taking oral contraceptives and my boyfriend does not use a condom during intercourse, what is the chance of pregnancy?

Kathy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/02

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Eating three white pills less can easily cause menstrual irregularities, but it still provides contraceptive effects.
If one pill is missed, it's unclear which day it was.
Generally, continuing to take the pills can also lead to menstrual irregularities.
Condoms can reduce the risk of vaginal infections, not just serve as contraception.
If a partner truly cares for you, they should consider your well-being.

Reply Date: 2015/12/02

More Info

When it comes to understanding birth control pills, their effectiveness, and proper usage, it's essential to grasp how these medications work and the implications of any deviations from the prescribed regimen. Birth control pills, commonly referred to as oral contraceptives, are designed to prevent pregnancy primarily by inhibiting ovulation, thickening cervical mucus, and thinning the uterine lining.
In your case, you mentioned that you are on a 28-day pill regimen and that you delayed taking the white pills (placebo pills) until the third day of your menstrual cycle. It's important to note that the white pills are typically taken during the last week of the cycle and do not contain hormones; they are there to help you maintain the habit of taking a pill daily. The hormonal pills taken during the first three weeks are what provide contraceptive protection.

If you have been taking your hormonal pills correctly for the first three weeks and only delayed starting the placebo pills, your contraceptive protection should still be intact. However, if you missed a hormonal pill at any point, especially during the first week of starting a new pack, this could potentially reduce the effectiveness of the birth control. If you missed a hormonal pill, it is generally recommended to take it as soon as you remember and continue with the rest of the pack as scheduled. If you miss more than one pill, the instructions may vary depending on how many pills were missed and when they were missed, so consulting the specific guidelines provided with your pill pack is crucial.

Regarding your concern about having dropped a pill, if it was a hormonal pill and you missed taking it, you should follow the instructions for missed pills. Typically, if you miss one hormonal 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, and you might need to use backup contraception, such as condoms, for a short period.

As for the risk of pregnancy if you are taking birth control pills and engaging in unprotected sex, the effectiveness of the pill is generally around 91% to 99% when taken correctly. This means that while the risk of pregnancy is significantly reduced, it is not entirely eliminated. If you have missed pills or taken them inconsistently, the risk of pregnancy increases. If you are concerned about potential pregnancy, consider taking a home pregnancy test if your period is late or consult with your healthcare provider for further advice.

In summary, to maintain effective contraception while using birth control pills, it is crucial to take them consistently and correctly. If you miss a pill, follow the guidelines for missed doses, and consider using backup contraception if you are unsure about your protection status. If you have further questions or concerns about your specific situation, it would be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider who can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current circumstances.

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