Hi, I'm Dr. Emily Carter, a board-certified obstetrician-gynecologist. I've been in practice for over 15 years, and I specialize in women's reproductive health. I'm here to answer your questions and address your concerns in a comprehensive and compassionate manner.

It's a common question: Can you get pregnant while taking birth control pills? The short answer is yes, it's possible, but it's not common if you're taking the pill correctly. Let's delve deeper into why that is.

**Understanding How Birth Control Pills Work**

Birth control pills, also known as oral contraceptives, are hormonal methods of contraception. They primarily work by preventing ovulation. Here's how:

* Hormones: Most birth control pills are "combination pills" containing synthetic forms of the hormones estrogen and progestin. These hormones work together to:
* Suppress ovulation: They prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg each month.
* Thicken cervical mucus: This makes it more difficult for sperm to reach the egg.
* Thin the uterine lining: This makes it less likely for a fertilized egg to implant.

Why Pregnancy Is Still Possible

While birth control pills are highly effective when taken correctly, several factors can increase the risk of pregnancy:

* Not Taking the Pill Consistently: Missing pills, taking them at different times each day, or starting a new pack late can interfere with hormone levels and increase the chances of ovulation. The more pills you miss, the higher your risk.
* Vomiting or Diarrhea: Severe vomiting or diarrhea within a few hours of taking the pill can prevent its absorption.
* Certain Medications: Some medications, including certain antibiotics, anti-seizure drugs, and herbal supplements (like St. John's Wort), can interfere with how your body metabolizes birth control pills, making them less effective.
* Weight: Women who are overweight or obese may not metabolize the hormones in birth control pills as effectively.
* Individual Variation: Every woman's body processes medications differently. It's possible, although rare, for a woman to not absorb the hormones in birth control pills adequately, even if taken correctly.

Effectiveness of Birth Control Pills

When taken perfectly, birth control pills are up to 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. However, in typical use, where occasional mistakes might happen, the effectiveness is around 91%.

**What to Do If You Think You Might Be Pregnant**

If you're taking birth control pills and experience any of the following, it's essential to take a pregnancy test:

* Missed period: This is especially concerning if you've missed two or more periods in a row or if you've had unprotected sex.
* Symptoms of pregnancy: These can include nausea, breast tenderness, fatigue, and frequent urination.

**It's crucial to remember that birth control pills do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).** Using condoms consistently is still essential for STI prevention, even while taking birth control pills.

If you have any questions or concerns about birth control pills or any other method of contraception, please don't hesitate to schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider. We're here to help you make informed decisions about your reproductive health.
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With typical use, birth control is about 91 percent effective. Despite these high percentages, it's still possible for you to get pregnant. Birth control failure is often the result of missing two or more pills in a row. Without the constant supply of hormones, you may begin ovulating.read more >>