If You Miss a Birth Control Pill. Silver Spring.
Missing a birth control pill happens more often than you might think. Whether you forgot one dose or skipped a few days, it’s essential to know what steps to take—and when to reach out for help. At Metropolitan Family Planning Clinic (MFPC) in Silver Spring, we’re here to help you prevent unintended pregnancy with clear, practical guidance.
I Missed a Birth Control Pill—What Now?
The first step is not to panic. What you do next depends on how many pills you missed and what kind you take (combination or progestin-only). Here’s a quick breakdown:
If you missed one combination pill (estrogen + progestin):
- Take it as soon as you remember, even if that means taking two pills in one day.
- Keep taking the rest of the pack as usual.
- No backup needed if it’s the only pill you missed.
If you missed two or more combination pills in a row:
- Take the most recent pill you missed right away.
- Discard any earlier missed pills.
- Use a backup method (like condoms) for 7 days.
- If you had unprotected sex during this time, consider emergency contraception.
If you missed a progestin-only pill (mini pill):
- Take it as soon as you remember, even if that means two in one day.
- Use a backup method for the next 48 hours.
- Timing matters more with the mini pill—try not to delay more than 3 hours.
If You Miss a Birth Control Pill: When to Call MFPC
If you’ve missed multiple pills, had unprotected sex, or feel unsure about your risk of pregnancy, we’re here to help. We offer same-day access to emergency contraception, pregnancy testing, and reliable birth control counseling tailored to your needs.
How MFPC Can Help Prevent Unintended Pregnancy
We know life gets busy. That’s why our Silver Spring clinic focuses on convenience, privacy, and supportive care. Our staff will help you choose a birth control method that fits your lifestyle—and offer tips to help you stay on track.
You’re not alone, and we’re not here to judge. Just call us if you need help figuring out what to do after missing a birth control pill.
Need backup or have questions? Contact us here or check out more tips and resources on the MFPC blog.
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