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\"I forgot to take my pill\"

First of all don't panic. Answer these simple questions to find out what you need to do

If after answering the questions you are still unsure what to do, then seek advice as soon as possible. While you are getting advice don't stop taking the pill and use an extra method of contraception.

Q1. Which pill are you taking?

There are two types of contraceptive pill:

The combined pill (containing 2 hormones) which is usually taken for 21 days and then stopped for 7 days. However there are some combined pills which are taken everyday without a break. These are called everyday pills and have ED after the name of the pill.

The progestogen-only pill (containing one hormone), which is taken continuously without a break.

Q2. Is this the only pill that you have missed or taken late?

No/Unsure - If you have had sex recently you may need emergency contraception. Speak to someone as soon as possible to find out if this is necessary.

Yes - Answer the questions below and be sure to follow the advice for the type of pill that you are taking.

Q3. How late are you with your pill?

Less than 12 hours with a combined pill or less than 3 hours with a progestogen only pill -

1.Don't worry.

2.Take the pill that is late.

3.Take the rest of the pack as usual.

4.You don't need to use an extra method of contraception.

More than 12 hours with a combined pill or more than 3 hours with the progestogen only pill -

1.Take the missed pill now.

2.Take the next pill at the right time (this may mean that you have taken two pills on the same day).

3.Use extra precautions until you have taken seven pills in a row at the correct time.

The following questions are for combined pill users only.

Q4. How many pills are left in your packet?

7 or more

1.Finish the pack as normal making sure you have used an extra method of contraception.

2.Take the usual 7-day break or continue taking the inactive everyday (ED) pills.

3.Be sure to start the next packet at the right time.

Less than 7

1.Take the rest of the pills in the pack making sure you have used an extra for 7 days after the missed pill.

2.When you have finished the pack start a new pack the next day.

3.Do not have a 7-day break

If you are taking an Every Day pill (ED) you will need to miss out all the inactive (larger pills) and start the next active pill in the new pack and use an extra contraceptive method for 7 days.

If you are still unsure at all then seek advice. While you are getting advice don't stop taking the pill and use an extra method of contraception.

To find out more about any type of Contraception consult your doctor or drop into the Nurses unit (through security reception).

You can contact any Brook Advisory Service through www.brook.org.uk

You can contact the local contraceptive clinic at Ashton Community Centre on 01524 387401.

Or you can call the national 'contraceptive service helpline' on 020 7837 4044.