Debunking Myths: Can Taking Birth Control Pills While Pregnant Cause a Miscarriage?
Birth control pills are used to prevent unintended pregnancy, however, sometimes people unknowingly conceive while on birth control.
Unaware of their pregnancy, some individuals may continue taking birth control pills, potentially exposing the developing fetus to the hormonal effects of the contraceptive medication.
Discovering that you are pregnant while on birth control may raise concerns about potential harm to the developing fetus or the risk of a miscarriage.
This article aims to address “Can taking birth control pills while pregnant cause a miscarriage” and dispel the myths surrounding the issue.
Birth control and miscarriage myths
Dispelling common myths is crucial for understanding the relationship between birth control pills and miscarriage:
Birth control pills
There is no evidence to support the idea that taking birth control pills while pregnant causes miscarriage.
The hormones present in birth control pills prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus, actions that do not contribute to miscarriage or stillbirth during early pregnancy.
Emergency contraception
Using emergency contraception like Plan B One-Step while pregnant does not cause a spontaneous termination of the pregnancy.
These pills have no effect on a fertilized egg that has been implanted.
Medication abortion
Medications like Mifeprex or Misoprostol used for abortion are not considered birth control.
They work differently than hormonal birth control and are designed to terminate an existing pregnancy.
Birth control pills and birth defects
Taking combination birth control pills or Progestin-only pills during pregnancy does not increase the risk of birth defects or pregnancy complications.
There is limited research in this area due to ethical considerations, as conducting studies that could endanger a pregnant person or fetus is not permissible.
Older studies suggest a slight increase in the risk of Hypospadias in babies assigned male at birth when Progestins are taken in early pregnancy.
Hypospadias is a birth defect in boys where the opening of the urethra is not at the tip of their penis.
However, it’s crucial to note that these studies involved higher doses of Progestins used for infertility treatment, not the lower doses found in birth control pills.
Risks of continuing birth control pill
Although there is no evidence to suggest harm to the fetus if birth control pills are continued during early pregnancy, it is not recommended.
While birth control pills pose minimal risks during early pregnancy, there have been studies suggesting potential risks such as wheezing, asthma, and rhinitis.
When a woman conceives while taking a Progestin-only birth control pill (minipill), there is a slightly higher chance that the pregnancy may be ectopic.
An ectopic pregnancy happens when the fetus is outside the uterus or womb.
If you suspect pregnancy, take a pregnancy test to confirm.
Consider using alternative forms of contraception, such as condoms or the sponge, until pregnancy is confirmed.
Read, Understanding the Differences: Implantation Bleeding vs Miscarriage to know how miscarriage is different than other bleeding during pregnancy
Risks of continuing other birth control methods during pregnancy
While most birth control methods are safe during pregnancy, some may pose risks:
- IUDs: If pregnancy occurs with an intrauterine device (IUD) in place, there is a higher risk of complications like miscarriage, preterm birth, and infections. Prompt removal is recommended if the pregnancy is to continue
- Implants, shots, and vaginal rings: These methods carry similar risks to birth control pills, but the evidence does not indicate an increased risk of birth defects or miscarriages during early pregnancy
- Barrier methods: Condoms and other barrier methods are safe to use during pregnancy and do not pose any risks to the fetus
Conclusion
There is no evidence to support the idea that taking birth control pills while pregnant causes miscarriage.
The hormones in these pills primarily work to prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus, actions that do not contribute to pregnancy complications.
Emergency contraception like Plan B One-Step also does not cause a spontaneous termination of pregnancy once a fertilized egg has been implanted.
The FDA emphasizes that there is no evidence indicating that taking combination or Progestin-only pills during pregnancy causes harm or increases the risk of birth defects.
While continuing birth control pills during early pregnancy is not recommended due to potential risks like wheezing, asthma, and rhinitis, there is no conclusive evidence of harm to the fetus.
It is advisable to use other forms of birth control, like condoms or the sponge, until pregnancy is confirmed if a woman conceives while on birth control.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can taking birth control while pregnant hurt the fetus?
No, there is no evidence to suggest that taking birth control pills while pregnant can harm the fetus. The hormones in birth control pills do not contribute to miscarriage or fetal harm during early pregnancy. However, it is not recommended to continue taking birth control once pregnancy is confirmed.
Can birth control pills terminate an early pregnancy?
Birth control pills are not designed to terminate an existing pregnancy. They work primarily by preventing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus to stop sperm from fertilizing the egg. If a woman suspects pregnancy while on birth control, it is crucial to take a pregnancy test to confirm.
What pills can cause miscarriage in the first trimester?
The use of birth control pills does not cause miscarriage. However, medications specifically designed for abortion, such as Mifeprex (Mifepristone), can induce the termination of an existing pregnancy. It is important to note that the decision to terminate a pregnancy should be made in consultation with healthcare professionals.
Does using other birth control methods during pregnancy cause any complications?
Most birth control methods are generally safe to use during pregnancy, but there are some considerations. If a pregnancy occurs with an IUD, it may pose a higher risk for miscarriage or preterm birth. Barrier methods, however, are considered safe to use during pregnancy and do not cause any complications.
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