AboutMia Expertise I can answer questions about birth control methods. I am not a doctor so this should not be used in place of advice from your doctor. Rather, I can help explain anything that is unclear, and help ease your concerns. I will give you the most updated information and will answer questions without judgment.
Experience I have been working in the health field for 10 years.
Education/Credentials I have a master degree in public health with a focus on women's health.
Question I had a question about missing birth control pills and determining whether or not I should use back up protection. I always take my birth control at 10:30 p.m. On Sunday, I completely forgot and didnt take it until 1 p.m. on Monday. Then today (Tuesday) I forgot again but instead of taking it at 10:30 p.m., I took it at 1:30 a.m. So, there was a three hour window. I don't know if this helps but I'm on my second week on birth control. So, given my circumstances, should I use back up protection?
Answer Hi Ashley,
Are you on the combination pill (progestin and estrogen) or the mini-pill (progestin-only)? Most women are on the combo pill, but I will give answers for both just in case:
Combo pill: As long as you take the pill within a 4 hour window you are fine. A pill is considered late if it is taken about 8-12 hours after your normal time. So the 1st missed pill would fall in that. But since it was only 1 pill, and not 2 missed in a row (your Tuesday pill would not be considered late/missed), you do not need to use back-up protection.
Mini-pill: If you miss a pill by more than 3 hours you should take that pill as soon as you remember and take your next pill at your normal time, even if that means 2 pills on one day. You should use a back-up method for the next 48 hours. for your situation (taking it at exactly 3 hours after your regular time), I recommend using a back-up method for the next 48 hours.
I hope this helps. If you have further questions let me know.
