Always inform your doctor about all medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and even St. John’s Wort. Some medications, like certain antibiotics and anticonvulsants, can reduce the effectiveness of combination pills. This interaction can lead to unplanned pregnancies. Your doctor can help you find alternative birth control methods or adjust your medication schedule if needed.
Certain medical conditions can also affect how well combination pills work. Conditions like liver disease or migraine headaches with aura might require alternative birth control choices. Openly discuss your health history with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Lifestyle factors play a role too. Severe vomiting or diarrhea can interfere with pill absorption, reducing their effectiveness. If you experience prolonged or severe gastrointestinal upset, consider using backup contraception methods like condoms and consult your doctor.
Missing pills is another major factor. Consistent use is paramount to prevent pregnancy. While many regimens offer a degree of forgiveness for missed pills, consistently skipping pills significantly diminishes protection. Refer to your pill pack’s instructions for advice on handling missed pills or consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.
Smoking significantly increases the risk of serious side effects, including blood clots, when using combination pills. If you smoke, your doctor may recommend a different form of birth control. Similarly, obesity can increase the risk of blood clots.
Regularly scheduled check-ups with your doctor are vital. These check-ups provide opportunities to address any concerns and adjust your birth control as needed based on your changing health status or lifestyle.
