Main content

    Teen FAQ

    For over 10 years, teens have been asking us questions on every topic imaginable. While we are no longer taking new questions, we have a wealth of information we would like to share with teenagers.

    Questions about suicide? Call the NATIONAL SUICIDE HOTLINE 1-800-SUICIDE (1-800-784-2433).


    Navigate: FAQ Home Page > Birth Control & Safer Sex > Taking pill at same time each day?
    Posted on: 12/04/2008

    Question

    I've been taking birth control (Ortho Lo) for about 2 years now. I started taking birth control to help my acne and to lessen my cramps and bleeding on my period. It wasn't to keep me from getting pregnant initially because I wasn't sexually active. Now that I am though, I want to make sure I'm doing everything I can to protect myself and prevent pregnancy. My boyfriend and I use spermicidal condoms as well my birth control. He also pulls out before he ejaculates. We try to be very responsible.

    My question is: If I don't take my pill at the exact same time every night, like if I'm a hour late or something, will it still work like it's supposed to? Thank you!


    Answer

    You are doing a very good job of taking care of yourself.

    We do recommend that you take the birth control pill at the same time every day, but we really mean just don't bounce back and forth from morning to night. If you are taking it within the same 3 hour period every day you are doing fine.


    Answered By:
    Barbara Boyer , D.O.


    Back to previous
    Back to FAQ Home Page