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Birth Control Effects on a Fetus

The chance of a woman becoming pregnant while using hormonal birth control as directed is 1 to 2 percent. However, many women don't follow their birth control regimen perfectly. For example, if the pill is skipped for even one day and not made up, the odds of getting pregnant increase.

  1. Effects

    • Research has not found any harmful effects on a fetus as a result of using hormonal birth control for a short period of time while pregnant. There are believed to be no associated malformations or complications after an egg has properly implanted in the uterus. However, birth control should still be discontinued as soon as possible. If you're trying to get pregnant, it's generally safe to conceive as soon as you're able after stopping birth control. Some experts recommend waiting until a couple of months after your normal menstrual cycle has returned, though.

    Warning

    • When conception occurs, there is about a 1 percent chance of it being an ectopic or tubal pregnancy. Some types of birth control slightly increase the likelihood of this happening. An ectopic pregnancy is when the egg is implanted in a part of the body other than the uterus, usually in the fallopian tubes. This condition is potentially dangerous for the mother, and the fetus will not survive. Ectopic pregnancies should be terminated as early as possible. Symptoms may include pelvic or abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding or spotting, lower back pain and dizziness. It's important to seek medical care if you experience these symptoms and may be pregnant, even if birth control is being used.

    Symptoms

    • A woman who gets pregnant while on birth control should still experience the normal symptoms of pregnancy. They won't be hidden by the medication. Typical early symptoms include nausea, weight gain, fatigue, swollen or tender breasts, lower back pain, increased sensitivity to smells and food cravings. Keep in mind that women may experience any or none of these things during the first trimester. If pregnancy is suspected, take a pregnancy test two weeks after having sex or when an expected period is missed.

    Considerations

    • Most forms of birth control require the use of a backup method, such as condoms, in the beginning. It may take a while for the new birth control to become effective, and pregnancy can occur in the meantime if other precautions aren't taken. You may also need to use a backup method if birth control is forgotten or not used exactly as directed. Some other medications, including antibiotics, can render birth control less effective. Consult a doctor or pharmacist to find out if you need to use a backup method in these situations.

    Misconceptions

    • Birth control pills should not be used in an attempt to terminate an unwanted pregnancy, unless a doctor has instructed you to do so. This method is effective in only a small number of situations. It must be done very soon after unprotected sex and with certain types of pills. Proper dosage and timing of the pills is also necessary. Overdosing on hormonal birth control can cause adverse side effects.

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