If you forget to take your oral contraceptives, here’s a short guide for what to do.

If you miss one pill:

Less than 12 hours: take the missed pill when you remember and continue using birth control as prescribed, even if this means taking two pills in one day.

More than 12 hours: take the missed pill and continue using birth control as prescribed, even if this means taking two pills in one day.

+ If you miss a pill during the first week of taking the birth control, use a condom for backup over the next 7 days;

If you miss a pill during the second week of your birth control schedule, there’s no need for a backup during sex;

If you miss a pill during the third week of your birth control schedule, start the next pack without taking one week’s break; there’s no need for any backup during sex.

If you miss more than 2 pills, take 2 (or more) pills for each day you have missed, until you get back on schedule. For example, if you miss 2 pills (2 days), take 2 pills for 2 days, if you miss 3 pills (3 days), take 2 pills for 3 days, etc.

This information is for illustrative purposes only. We recommend that you should consult your healthcare provider if you forgot to take your contraceptive pills.

Remember that using backup contraception for the next 7 days is essential if you want to avoid getting pregnant.

If you observe any bloody vaginal discharge after you’ve missed a pill, you should quit taking your current pack and start a new pack in 7 days.

Sources:

What should I do if I miss a pill (combined pill)? Contraception guide, nhs.uk

I Forgot to Take My Birth Control Pill. Now What?, webmd.com

How to take birth control pills,  healthlinkbc.ca