Can You Still Get Pregnant After Taking Birth Control Pills?

Is it still possible to get pregnant after taking the medication beforehand?

Hello Doctor, I started taking low-dose Yaz birth control pills on the first day of my period.
After taking about 14 pills (I took them every day between 9 and 11 AM), I had unprotected intercourse with my partner for two days, during which he ejaculated inside me 4 to 5 times.
I continued taking the pills, but on the third day after the unprotected intercourse (I had been taking the pills consistently), I accidentally took my pill 12 hours late (I realized at 11 PM but took it as soon as I remembered).
The next day, I took the second pill as scheduled, and after that, we did not have any more sexual intercourse.
However, around the 22nd day of taking the pills, I suddenly noticed brown discharge that lasted for 5 to 6 days, which was about the amount of two 10 NT dollar coins, but it was light.
I did not take the last two placebo pills, and we used condoms for any sexual activity.
I initially thought my period would come, but after the brown discharge ended, I did not experience the usual heavy red menstrual flow, and I still have not had it (there are still about 20 days until my next expected period).
Could this be a side effect of the birth control pills, or am I pregnant? I have read that birth control pills can cause lighter and irregular periods, and I have also come across information suggesting that brown discharge can occur before a pregnancy.
Thank you, Doctor!

Xīn xīn xiāng xī, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/20

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello,
Each type of combined oral contraceptive pill comes in different formulations.
It is important to take the pills as directed.
If you forget to take a pill, you should take it as soon as you remember, and continue taking the next pill at the usual time.
If you miss a dose of an active pill for more than 12 hours, in addition to taking the missed pill, it is advisable to use an additional barrier method of contraception for the next seven days.
If you miss a pill for more than 24 hours, you should stop taking the current pack of pills and refrain from taking them for seven days (including the days you missed), then continue with the next cycle.

If you miss a pill and do not experience the expected withdrawal bleeding during the placebo period, there may be a possibility of pregnancy.
Therefore, it is recommended that you consult a physician for evaluation (such as ultrasound, urine test, or blood test) to determine if you are pregnant and to decide whether to continue taking the pills.

Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.

Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2015/12/20

More Info

When it comes to the question of whether you can still get pregnant after taking birth control pills, the answer is nuanced and depends on several factors, including how consistently and correctly the pills are taken, as well as individual body responses to hormonal changes.

Birth control pills, particularly combination pills that contain both estrogen and progestin, are designed to prevent ovulation. When taken correctly—meaning at the same time every day without missing doses—they are over 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. However, if pills are missed or taken late, as in your case where you took a pill 12 hours late, the effectiveness can be compromised. Missing a dose can lead to breakthrough ovulation, which means that an egg may be released and could potentially be fertilized if sperm is present.

In your situation, you mentioned that you took the pill consistently for about 14 days before having unprotected intercourse, and then you missed a dose. The fact that you took the missed pill as soon as you remembered is good practice, but it does not completely eliminate the risk of pregnancy, especially since you had unprotected sex shortly before the missed dose.
The appearance of brown discharge can be concerning and may indicate several things. Brown discharge often signifies old blood, which can occur for various reasons, including hormonal fluctuations caused by the birth control pills. It is not uncommon for women on hormonal contraceptives to experience changes in their menstrual cycle, including lighter periods or spotting between periods. This can be a side effect of the pills, especially if you have recently started or changed your regimen.

However, brown discharge can also be an early sign of pregnancy, particularly if it is accompanied by other symptoms such as breast tenderness, nausea, or fatigue. Since you have not had a regular menstrual period following the brown discharge, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test if your period does not arrive as expected. Home pregnancy tests are generally reliable and can provide clarity on whether you are pregnant or if the changes in your cycle are due to the birth control pills.

In summary, while it is possible to get pregnant after taking birth control pills—especially if doses are missed or taken late—the brown discharge you are experiencing could be a side effect of the pills rather than a definitive sign of pregnancy. If you are concerned or if your symptoms persist, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and to discuss your options moving forward. They can provide further evaluation and guidance based on your specific situation.

Similar Q&A

Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Birth Control Pills?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask if after taking birth control pills, my period came normally but was about 5 days late for the next cycle and the blood flow was heavier. Is it possible that I could still be pregnant? Thank you for your answer.

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, it is considered normal not to be pregnant. Wishing you good health.

Can You Get Pregnant During the 7-Day Break After Birth Control Pills?

If I have taken all 21 pills of the birth control pill on time, can I get pregnant if I have unprotected intercourse during the seven-day waiting period after finishing the pills?

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, you should be fine, so please don't worry. Wishing you good health.

Can You Get Pregnant After Stopping Birth Control Pills?

If you have been using oral contraceptives for over four years and have stopped taking them this month, there is a possibility of pregnancy if you had unprotected intercourse before putting on a condom. The effectiveness of the birth control pill diminishes quickly after disconti...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, you should not be pregnant. Wishing you good health.

Can I Get Pregnant After Taking Birth Control Pills?

Hello Doctor: I took my first dose of Yaz, and after finishing the last pink pill, I had sexual intercourse. Two days later, I took the second white pill, and that day I got my period. Am I at risk of becoming pregnant?

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances are slim. Wishing you good health.