Articles on: Birth Control

What should I do if I miss a pill?

Every brand of contraceptive pill can have different instructions and a different pack layout. Please read the information booklet provided in your contraceptive pack before starting any medication.

The Combined Pill

As a general rule, if you have missed 1 pill you are still protected against pregnancy however, you should take the last pill you missed as soon as you remember, even if you take two in one day. After this, continue taking your pack as normal.

If you have missed 2 or more pills you should take the last pill that you missed even if it means taking 2 pills in one day but do not take any earlier pills that you have missed. Then continue taking the rest of your pills as usual.

Protection against pregnancy may be affected and therefore it is recommended that you should use another form of contraception, such as condoms, for the next 7 days.

Progestogen-only Pills (Mini Pills)

If you are taking a pill with desogestrel then the advice slightly differs. You can check whether your pill has desogestrel by checking the packet, the information leaflet and by speaking to a pharmacist.

If you have missed taking your pill by less than 3 hours (or less than 12 hours for the desogestrel pill) you will still be protected against pregnancy however, you should take the last pill you missed as soon as you remember, even if you take two in one day. Then continue taking your pack as normal.

As a general rule, if you have missed taking your pill by more than 3 hours (or more than 12 hours for the desogestrel pill) you should take the last pill that you missed, and not any earlier ones, even if it means taking 2 pills in one day. Take your next pill at the usual time and carry on taking your remaining pills as usual.

_In this scenario, you may not be protected against pregnancy and it is recommended that you use an extra form of contraception, such as condoms for the next two days after you remember to take your missed pill. _

During your virtual consultation with your assigned Partner Doctor, make sure you ask any questions about your prescribed medication, including how to take it and how to start it.

Check out this NHS page for more information.

Contro does not provide medical advice. All the above information has been verified and checked by our Partner Doctors.

Updated on: 06/03/2024

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