Hi ZOBO,
As much as I would love to say "you're safe from pregnancy", the fact is that anytime you miss pills, and do not follow the instructions after missing the pills (including "doubling-up" and back-up protection), the 99% effectiveness rate of the pill decreases. According to Planned Parenthood, "about 8 out of 100 women will get pregnant each year if they don’t always take the pill each day as directed."
Can I offer some information about how to double-up? Here is an example:
Say you missed pills on Monday & Tuesday. Here's what you would do:
Wednesday: take Wednesday's pill plus Monday's missed pill
Thursday: take Thursday's pill plus Tuesday's missed pill
Friday: take Friday's pill as usual
A few notes: when "doubling up" on pills, it is best not to take them together, but take them in the same day. Taking two pills at once can cause stomach irritation or nausea. Always take that day's pill as directed, and "double-up" with the first missed pill. This works when you miss 1 or 2 pills. If you miss 3 or more pills, you will need to read the instructions carefully, as most prescriptions say to throw away the pack and start a new pack on the following Sunday or Monday (whatever day you start), while using back up protection for the next 7 (or more) days. Very important!! Your period may be delayed, and you may experience spotting.
I hope this information helps; please let us know if you have any other questions. Be sure to use those condoms!!! :)
Comment Reply
Hi ZOBO,
As much as I would love to say "you're safe from pregnancy", the fact is that anytime you miss pills, and do not follow the instructions after missing the pills (including "doubling-up" and back-up protection), the 99% effectiveness rate of the pill decreases. According to Planned Parenthood, "about 8 out of 100 women will get pregnant each year if they don’t always take the pill each day as directed."
Can I offer some information about how to double-up? Here is an example:
Say you missed pills on Monday & Tuesday. Here's what you would do:
Wednesday: take Wednesday's pill plus Monday's missed pill
Thursday: take Thursday's pill plus Tuesday's missed pill
Friday: take Friday's pill as usual
A few notes: when "doubling up" on pills, it is best not to take them together, but take them in the same day. Taking two pills at once can cause stomach irritation or nausea. Always take that day's pill as directed, and "double-up" with the first missed pill. This works when you miss 1 or 2 pills. If you miss 3 or more pills, you will need to read the instructions carefully, as most prescriptions say to throw away the pack and start a new pack on the following Sunday or Monday (whatever day you start), while using back up protection for the next 7 (or more) days. Very important!! Your period may be delayed, and you may experience spotting.
I hope this information helps; please let us know if you have any other questions. Be sure to use those condoms!!! :)
August 30, 2009 - 12:15pmThis Comment
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