Can I Get Pregnant While Taking Birth Control Pills?

Can I get pregnant?

I am taking a combined oral contraceptive pill with a 28-day cycle.
The first seven pills do not have contraceptive efficacy, so I started taking the second pack on the third day of my period.
I have been taking them consistently.
My last menstrual period started on November 11 and ended on November 16.
I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend on December 7; we used a condom the first time, but not afterward.
My boyfriend ejaculated outside.
What is the chance of pregnancy in this situation? I have two pills left in my second pack; if my period does not come after I finish them, should I start the next pack?

Lian Hong Hong, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/10

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The probability of pregnancy is very low.
If your period has not arrived, first rule out the possibility of pregnancy, and then proceed to take the next pack.
Sincerely, Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/12/10

More Info

When it comes to the question of whether you can get pregnant while taking birth control pills, the answer is generally no, provided that the pills are taken correctly and consistently. Birth control pills are designed to prevent ovulation, which means that if taken as directed, they significantly reduce the chances of becoming pregnant. However, there are several factors to consider in your specific situation.

Firstly, you mentioned that you started taking the second pack of pills on the third day of your period. It's important to note that the first seven pills in a new pack are often considered a "grace period" where the contraceptive effect may not be fully established. This means that if you had unprotected intercourse during this time, there is a possibility of pregnancy, especially if you had not been on the pill long enough for it to take effect.

In your case, since you had sexual intercourse on July 12 and were still within the initial days of your second pack, the risk of pregnancy could be higher than if you had been taking the pills for a longer duration. However, since you mentioned that your boyfriend withdrew before ejaculation, this method, while not foolproof, does reduce the likelihood of sperm entering the vagina.

Regarding your question about what to do if your period does not arrive after finishing your second pack of pills, it is generally recommended to continue taking the pills as prescribed. If you finish the pack and your period does not start, you should take a pregnancy test to confirm whether or not you are pregnant. If the test is negative and you still do not get your period, it may be advisable to consult with your healthcare provider for further guidance.

It's also worth noting that certain factors can affect the efficacy of birth control pills, such as missing doses, taking medications that interact with the pill, or gastrointestinal issues like vomiting or diarrhea shortly after taking a pill. If any of these situations apply to you, it could increase the risk of pregnancy.

In summary, while the chances of getting pregnant while on birth control pills are low, they are not zero, especially if the pills are not taken consistently or correctly. If you have concerns about your contraceptive method or potential pregnancy, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current situation.

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