What Effect Does Loestrin 24 Have If Taken While Pregnant?

Loestrin 24, an oral contraceptive composed of the synthetic hormones norethindrone acetate and ethinyl estradiol, bills itself as 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy. Loestrin 24 should not be used during pregnancy, but accidentally doing so early in pregnancy is unlikely to harm the woman or the fetus.

Significance

• The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) identified Loestrin 24 as a Category X medication in their drug classification system that measures potential risks during pregnancy. Category X indicates medication that should not be used during pregnancy due to the risks of serious side effects.

Considerations

• Despite the Category X designation, the Mayo Clinic asserts that years of studies show little evidence to indicate that accidentally taking birth control pills poses a significant risk to the fetus.

Warning

• While research is reassuring as to the lack of effects of hormonal birth control upon a fetus, these are potent hormones. The Mayo Clinic recommends that you discontinue the use of the pills as early in the pregnancy as possible to minimize any potential side effects.

Effects

• Women who suspect pregnancy while taking these pills should take an over-the-counter pregnancy test to verify the pregnancy.

Prevention/Solution

• If you find that you are pregnant while taking Loestrin 24, stop taking the pills immediately and make an appointment with your doctor.