When travelling or on holiday, it is important to be aware of circumstances where the contraceptive pill may not be as effective as normal. Make sure sufficient contraceptives have been packed for a holiday, including extras, in case of delays.
The Contraceptive Pill – Travel Problems
As the pill does not offer any protection against sexually transmitted diseases, it is important to pack condoms if intending to have sex on holiday. Whilst abroad, many holiday-makers suffer from a stomach upset at some time, due to changes in diet. If one suffers from persistent diarrhoea, or vomits within three hours of taking the pill, it may not be effective. There are certain medications that may inhibit the manner in which the pill works, for example antibiotics and the herbal depression remedy of St. John's Wort.
When travelling on long haul flights, as identified by Jones (2004) in Travel Health, the mini-pill is safer, having less of an effect on the clotting system than the combined pill. However, there is very little room for error in terms of taking the mini-pill as if more than three hours late, other contraceptive methods will be necessary.
In The Essential Guide to Travel Health, Wilson-Howarth (2009) acknowledges the following rules if the mini-pill (progesterone only) is more than three hours late:
- Take the missed pill.
- Take the next pill on time.
- Use condoms or abstain for 48 hours.
- Keep taking the mini-pill.
- Anyone who has had sex during this time should consider seeking emergency contraception.
In contrast to the mini-pill, with the combined oral contraceptive pill there is more of a safe window, making it possible to take it within 12 hours without encountering any trouble. If the combined oral contraceptive pill has been missed for more than 12 hours, then Wilson-Howarth (2009) recommends the following action:
- Take the forgotten pill.
- Take the next pill on time.
- Use condoms or abstain for one week.
- If less than seven pills left, do not take a pill-free break.
- Continue taking the combined contraceptive pill.
- Anyone who has had sex during this time should consider seeking emergency contraception.
As highlighted above, it is important to remember that while the pill protects against pregnancy, it will not protect against sexually transmitted disease. Other times when the pill may not be effective, include when pills are missed, if vomiting within three hours of taking the pill. In addition, some medications such as antibiotics and herbal remedies, including St. John's Wort, can also affect the pill.
Sources:
Jones, N. (2004) Travel Health New York: Rough Guides
Wilson-Howarth, J. (2009) The Essential Guide to Travel Health London: Cadogan Guides
Kate Le Page - Kate Henning-Le Page writes about eating disorders, body image and recovery issues. She specializes in anorexia recovery.
Join the Conversation