Forgetting to take a birth control pill can increase the risk of an unplanned pregnancy. The steps to take if you miss a pill depend on how many pills you have missed and where you are in your pill pack. Here are some general guidelines:

• If you missed one pill: Take the missed pill as soon as you remember, even if it means taking two pills in one day. Then, continue taking the rest of the pack as normal. You do not need to use extra contraception.

• If you missed two or more pills: Take the most recent missed pill as soon as possible, even if it means taking two pills in one day. Discard any other missed pills. Then, continue taking your pills as normal. You may need to use backup contraception, such as condoms, for the next 7 days.

• If you missed pills in the first week of a new pack: Take the most recent missed pill as soon as possible, even if it means taking two pills in one day. Discard any other missed pills. You may need to use emergency contraception if you have had unprotected sex. Contact a healthcare provider urgently. You may also need to use backup contraception for the next 7 days.

• If you missed placebo pills: You can throw them away and start a new pack as normal.

It is important to follow the instructions for your specific type of birth control pill, as different pills may have different instructions for missed pills. If you are unsure what to do, contact your healthcare provider or a pharmacist for advice[[3]](https://www.plannedparenthood.org/...