Dear Bernardette ,

Yes, you are still protected against pregnancy if you miss reminder pills. Combination pills come in 28-day or 21-day packs. In the 28-day pack, 21 pills are "active" — they contain hormones that prevent pregnancy. The last seven pills in the pack of combination pills are called "reminder" pills. They do not contain hormones. However, it's a good idea to take the reminder pills so you stay in the habit of taking the pill every day.

Used correctly — taken at the same time each day, every single day — the Pill is up to 99.7 percent effective against pregnancy.

Missing an active pill increases the chances of pregnancy. To find out what to do if you miss an active pill, check out this
chart.

Hope this information helps!

Take care,

teenwire.com^® Editors

This column is for informational purposes only and is not intended to constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. If you have a medical problem, please call toll-free 1-800-230-PLAN for an appointment with the Planned Parenthood health center nearest you.