If you missed one pill…
If you missed one pill anywhere in the pack or started a new pack one day late, you’re still protected against pregnancy. You should:
If you missed more than one pill…
If you miss two or more pills anywhere in the pack or started a new pack two or more days late (48 hours or more), your protection against pregnancy may be affected. You should:
When you start the next pack after missing two or more pills:
Less than 3 hours late
More than 3 hours late
Although some women on the Pill reported to having put on weight, it is very questionable that this could be traced back to the Pill.
However, with some pills you might put on weight when you start taking them, due to water retention, which makes you feel bigger. Today however, there are modern contraceptive pills which can avoid such water retention to some extent.
You may also find your appetite increases in the first three months of pill taking, so of course if you eat more you may gain weight!
Compared to modern hormonal methods, condoms are less reliable and effective in protecting against pregnancy but they are the only method that will protect against STIs, including HIV/AIDS.
The emergency pill must be taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex. The sooner it is taken, the more effective it is. It is most effective if it is taken within the first 12 hours after unprotected sex.
Oral contraceptives are highly effective when used consistently and correctly. The prevention of pregnancy is the greatest benefit of the combined pill. When taken correctly, the combined pill is one of the most reliable methods in preventing pregnancy. Make sure you take the combined pill according to your doctor’s instructions, as well as the instructions in the package leaflet.
Not sure how to broach the topic of sex and contraception with your partner, parents, or doctor? We’re here to help.
Reference:
http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/birth-control/in-depth/birth-control-pill/art-20045136?pg=2
Accessed on September 6, 2016