What if you miss one birth control pill while you're on antibiotics?

Most antibiotics do not affect the Birth Control pill, but some do -- examples are griseofulvin, rifampin, and some HIV medications. A few of the more common antibiotics may decrease estrogen levels a bit, but not enough to cause pregnancy. But if you miss a birth control pill while on one of those antibiotics, the risk may increase.

There are no studies quantifying the chances of pregnancy if you miss a birth control pill while on antibiotics. Normally, missing one combination birth control pill doesn't require any special care. You can talk with your health care provider or pharmacist to find out if your birth control pill and antibiotic combination pose a greater risk, and whether taking emergency contraception makes sense.

If you're missing pills regularly, your risk of pregnancy is higher. Consider using a method that doesn't require you to take action daily. The IUD and contraceptive implant are highly effective and reversible methods.