What to Do If You Miss a Birth Control Pill

Life can get super busy, and sometimes that means forgetting to take your birth control pill. If you find yourself in this situation, don’t worry – you’re not alone, and there are steps you can take to stay protected! Here’s what you need to know:  

Step-by-Step Guide: What to Do If You Miss a Pill

One Pill Missed: 

• If you’ve missed one pill, take it as soon as you remember. This might mean taking two pills in one day – the one you missed and the one scheduled for that day.
• Continue taking the remaining pills at your usual time.
• Missing one pill make slightly decrease the effectiveness, but you’re still likely to be protected. Just be sure to take it as soon as possible.

Two or More Pills Missed:

• If you’ve missed two of more pills, take the most recent missed pill as soon as you remember. Discard any other missed pills. 
• Continue taking the remaining pills at your usual time, even if it means taking two pills in one day.
• Use a backup method of contraception, like condoms, for the next seven days to ensure you’re protected against pregnancy.
• Missing multiple pills increases the risk of pregnancy, so it’s important to use that backup method.

Missed Pills and Unprotected Sex:

• If you’ve had unprotected sex after missing a pill, there’s a chance you could become pregnancy. Depending on the timing, you may want to consider emergency contraception.

The Importance of Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception can help prevent pregnancy if taken up to five days after unprotected sex. It’s most effective the sooner you take it. If you need emergency contraception, Planned Parenthood Direct can help you get it quickly and discreetly.

Never Miss a Pill Again with Spot On

There are plenty of ways to remember to take your birth control on time – the important thing is that you do take it! Consider using a period tracker app like Spot On to send you reminders so you never miss a pill. 

Stay on Track with Planned Parenthood Direct

Missing a pill can be stressful, but with the Planned Parenthood Direct app, you can simplify your birth control routine. The app offers the convenience of having your birth control pills auto-shipped to your door, ensuring you never run out and reducing the chances of missing a dose.