Miss a Birth Control Pill? Side Effects, What to Do

This post was written with Consensus AI Academic Search Engine – please read our Disclaimer at the end of this article. Missing a birth control pill can be a common occurrence, but it can lead to confusion and concern about the potential side effects and the risk of unintended pregnancy. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of what happens when you miss a pill, the associated side effects, and the recommended steps to take to maintain contraceptive effectiveness.

Side Effects of Missing a Birth Control Pill

When a birth control pill is missed, the hormonal balance that prevents ovulation can be disrupted, potentially leading to several side effects and risks.

Increased Risk of Ovulation

Missing one or more pills can increase the risk of ovulation, which in turn raises the possibility of pregnancy. A study found that missing two consecutive pills significantly increased the risk of ovulation compared to missing just one pill1. Another study demonstrated that missing three consecutive pills and delaying the restart of the contraceptive regimen could lead to ovulation and a theoretical risk of pregnancy3.

Hormonal Fluctuations

Missing pills can cause hormonal fluctuations that may result in side effects such as mood swings, irritability, and anxiety. Research has shown that combined oral contraceptive (COC) use is associated with both improvement and worsening of mood in different phases of the treatment cycle7. These mood-related side effects can be more pronounced in women with a history of adverse reactions to hormonal contraceptives.

Physical Symptoms

Physical symptoms such as nausea, headaches, and intermenstrual bleeding can also occur when pills are missed. A study on the side effects of contraceptive placebos reported common complaints including decreased libido, headaches, and lower abdominal pain8. These symptoms can be distressing and may affect the overall acceptability of the contraceptive method.

What to Do If You Miss a Pill

The steps to take after missing a birth control pill depend on the number of pills missed and the timing within the pill pack.

Missing One Pill

If you miss one pill, take it as soon as you remember. Then, take the next pill at the usual time, even if it means taking two pills in one day. This approach helps maintain the contraceptive’s effectiveness and minimizes the risk of ovulation1.

Missing Two or More Pills

If you miss two or more pills, the instructions become more complex. A study found that women often struggle to correctly identify the steps to take when multiple pills are missed, regardless of the instruction format1. Generally, you should take the most recent missed pill as soon as possible and continue taking the remaining pills at the usual time. Additionally, use a backup contraceptive method, such as condoms, for the next seven days to ensure protection against pregnancy1.

Emergency Contraception

In cases where three or more pills are missed, especially during the first week of the pack, consider using emergency contraception. A study highlighted that taking ulipristal acetate (UPA) 30 mg after missing three pills and immediately restarting the COC regimen significantly reduced the risk of ovulation compared to delaying the restart3. Therefore, immediate action is crucial to prevent unintended pregnancy.

Conclusion

Missing a birth control pill can lead to various side effects and an increased risk of pregnancy. Understanding the appropriate steps to take when a pill is missed is essential for maintaining contraceptive effectiveness. If you miss one pill, take it as soon as you remember and continue with your regular schedule. For two or more missed pills, follow the recommended guidelines and consider using a backup contraceptive method. In cases of multiple missed pills, emergency contraception may be necessary. Always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance.

Disclaimer

The content presented in this blog is generated by Consensus, an AI-powered academic search engine, and is based on publicly available scientific literature. While every effort is made to provide accurate, up-to-date, and well-researched information, the content is intended for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any decisions regarding medical conditions, treatments, or medications. The AI system’s analysis may not cover all perspectives, emerging research, or individual cases, and it is not a substitute for professional expertise. Neither the blog publisher nor the developers of the AI-powered search engine are responsible for any actions taken based on the information provided in this content. Use of this information is at your own risk. Citations to the original scientific studies are included for reference, but these studies should be reviewed in full and interpreted with the guidance of a healthcare or research professional.

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