Forgot to Take My Pill

If you have forgotten a contraceptive pill you may not be protected against pregnancy.

First of all don't panic.

Follow these steps

1. Check the pill instructions to see the maximum length of time you had to take the pill to see if you were late taking it
2. Take the pill that you missed
3. Call your Family Planning clinic or your doctor and tell them what has happened. Have the packet near by as they will need to know how far through the packet you are and the type of pill you are taking
4. Follow the doctor's or nurse's instructions
5. Take the next pill in the packet when it is next due

There are different rules for different types of pills about when you will be safe to have sex again without the risk of getting pregnant. If you are in doubt make sure you use a condom. You can buy quality condoms from our online shop.

You may also not be protected against pregnancy if you vomited within three hours of taking your pill or had diarrhoea.

New research shows that most common antibiotics do not reduce the effectiveness of the pill.

If you are unsure if you are protected against pregnancy, you may need to use emergency contraception. Call your Family Planning clinic or doctor for more information.