Dear tita8887,

If you take your pill two hours late it is still effective. Most women use combined hormone pills. They contain both estrogen and progestin. They must be taken once a day, but the time of day does not have to be consistent.

However, if you are taking progestin-only pills, it is best to take them at the same time every day. They may be a lot less effective if you take them more than three hours later than usual. If this happens, you should use a backup method of birth control, like a latex or female condom. (For example, if you've been taking your pill at noon, but you forget to take it until after three p.m., you should take it as soon as you remember. Continue to take the rest of the pack on schedule. And use a backup method for 48 hours after taking the late pill. Start the next pill on time.

Check out this chart to see what to do if you forget a pill or two.

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.