When to Call for Backup

Today, we’re giving you a quick rundown of when you’ll want to use a backup method of birth control to make sure you’re protected from pregnancy.

1. It’s Still Early Days: If you’re just starting out with birth control pills, you’ll need to use a backup form of contraception (condoms, etc.), for the first 7 days.  
2. You Forgot: If you miss a pill, especially during the first week of a pack, you’ll need backup for at least 7 days. 
1. Just missed one? Take it ASAP and then take your next pill as usual. As long as it hasn’t been 48 hours without a pill, no need for backup!
2. Missed more? If you missed your most recent pill, go ahead and take it ASAP, then take the rest of the pack as usual. You’ll need backup for 7 days of pills (not counting the inactive pills at the end of your pack).
3. Lost Track of Time: If you take your pill more than a few hours away from your regular pill time, the effectiveness of the pill is reduced. For that, you can use backup for 48 hours!