The Pill

 

An elephant never forgets, but if you do the consequences won't be disastrous if you follow these golden rules:

Combined Contraceptive pill
(Taken for 21 days at the same time every day and then have a 7 day break before starting next packet)
Missing a pill | Rules and information

Missing a pill
If the pill is more than 12 hours later than your usual pill taking time or you have missed a pill...
Use the 7 day rule:
Take the late pill and carry on taking your pills as normal
Use another contraceptive method, such as condoms, for the next 7 days
If your pack ends before the 7 days do, use the new pack and do not leave a gap and so miss your period that month

If the pill is less than 12 hours late...
Don't worry- just take the late pill immediately and carry on taking the pills at the usual time (this may mean taking more than one pill in a day but this does not matter)

Rules and information
If you miss a period...
This may mean you are pregnant but is unlikely if you have been taking the pill correctly
Take your next pack as usual but see your doctor if you believe you have put yourself at risk or miss a second period

If you lose a pill...
Take the last pill in the pack to replace the lost pill and carry on taking the others on the proper day
The cycle will be one day shorter but this will not effect contraceptive protection
After your 7 pill-free days you will have a new starting day which will be one earlier than before
If you lose a whole pack of pills, ask your doctor for advice

If you have bleeding between periods...
This is likely during the first few months and is normally nothing to worry about
Keep taking your pill as usual and the bleeding should stop but if the bleeding keeps returning, lasts longer than a few days, or starts after you have been on the pill for a long time: consult your doctor
Bleeding could be due to irregular pill taking so ensure you take your pill at the same time every day

Will you put on weight?
It is likely you may be more hungry so healthy eating whilst on the pill is advisable