Pregnancy While On Birth Control Pills

Pregnancy While on Birth Control Pills: Understanding the Risks and Options

Birth control pills are one of the most effective methods of contraception, but they are not foolproof. It is possible to get pregnant while taking birth control pills, although the risk is low.

How Birth Control Pills Work

Birth control pills work by preventing ovulation, the release of an egg from the ovary. They also thicken cervical mucus, making it more difficult for sperm to reach the egg. Some birth control pills also contain hormones that thin the lining of the uterus, making it less likely that a fertilized egg will implant.

Factors That Increase the Risk of Pregnancy While on Birth Control Pills

There are a number of factors that can increase the risk of pregnancy while on birth control pills, including:

• Missing pills: Even missing one pill can increase the risk of pregnancy.
• Taking pills late: Taking pills late can also increase the risk of pregnancy.
• Vomiting or diarrhea: Vomiting or diarrhea can prevent the pill from being absorbed into the body, which can increase the risk of pregnancy.
• Certain medications: Some medications can interact with birth control pills and make them less effective.
• Smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of pregnancy while on birth control pills.
• Obesity: Obesity can also increase the risk of pregnancy while on birth control pills.

Signs and Symptoms of Pregnancy While on Birth Control Pills

The signs and symptoms of pregnancy while on birth control pills are the same as the signs and symptoms of pregnancy in general. These include:

• Missed period: A missed period is one of the most common signs of pregnancy.
• Nausea and vomiting: Nausea and vomiting are also common signs of pregnancy.
• Breast tenderness: Breast tenderness is another common sign of pregnancy.
• Fatigue: Fatigue is a common sign of pregnancy.
• Frequent urination: Frequent urination is a common sign of pregnancy.

What to Do If You Think You Might Be Pregnant While on Birth Control Pills

If you think you might be pregnant while on birth control pills, it is important to see your doctor right away. Your doctor will perform a pregnancy test and discuss your options with you.

Options for Pregnancy While on Birth Control Pills

If you are pregnant while on birth control pills, you have a few options. You can:

• Continue the pregnancy: If you want to continue the pregnancy, your doctor will monitor you closely and provide you with prenatal care.
• Have an abortion: If you do not want to continue the pregnancy, you can have an abortion. Abortion is a safe and legal procedure.
• Adopt the baby: If you do not want to continue the pregnancy or have an abortion, you can adopt the baby. Adoption is a loving and rewarding option.

Preventing Pregnancy While on Birth Control Pills

There are a number of things you can do to prevent pregnancy while on birth control pills, including:

• Take your pills every day at the same time: Taking your pills every day at the same time will help to prevent ovulation and pregnancy.
• Do not miss any pills: Even missing one pill can increase the risk of pregnancy.
• Take your pills with food: Taking your pills with food can help to prevent nausea and vomiting, which can prevent the pill from being absorbed into the body.
• Avoid certain medications: Some medications can interact with birth control pills and make them less effective. Talk to your doctor about any medications you are taking.
• Quit smoking: Smoking can increase the risk of pregnancy while on birth control pills.
• Lose weight: Obesity can also increase the risk of pregnancy while on birth control pills.

Conclusion

Birth control pills are a safe and effective method of contraception, but they are not foolproof. It is possible to get pregnant while taking birth control pills, although the risk is low. If you think you might be pregnant while on birth control pills, it is important to see your doctor right away.