Unfortunately, it’s complicated. The short answer is “No.” But, like so many discussions between pro-abortion and pro-life groups, this one has been muddied by politics. The important word to remember in this question is “extra.” Perhaps the true question should be, “Will taking birth control pills cause an abortion?”
What is Considered Birth Control?
According to Healthline, birth control is any method you use to prevent pregnancy. There are different options. Condoms, a diaphragm, cervical cap, and contraceptive sponge are all considered barrier birth control methods. Surgical methods involve tying tubes or having a vasectomy. Finally, hormonal birth control methods include the pill, the patch, and injections. Most birth control methods have an 80% to 99% effective rate. However, it is still possible to get pregnant while using any type of birth control, particularly if you forget to use them.
How Does The Birth Control Pill Work?
According to several sources, the birth control pill prevents pregnancy in three ways. First, the pill thickens the cervical mucus to make it more difficult for sperm to reach the egg. Secondly, it suppresses ovulation by mimicking pregnancy-level hormones in the body, preventing eggs from being released from the ovaries. Finally, as a fail-safe, the pill makes the lining of the uterus inhospitable to any fertilized egg that might slip through. By changing the lining of the uterus so a fertilized egg cannot implant, the pill causes what is called a “silent abortion.”
Symptoms of Overdosing On Birth Control Pills
Medline Plus lists the following as symptoms of taking too many birth control pills at once:
- Breast tenderness
- Discolored urine
- Drowsiness
- Heavy vaginal bleeding (2 to 7 days after the overdose)
- Headache
- Emotional changes
- Nausea and vomiting
- Rash
Complications of Taking the Pill Once You Are Pregnant
It is recommended that if you suspect you are pregnant while on the birth control pill, you should stop taking it. Recent studies suggest your baby is not at risk for abnormalities. However, any hormonal drug that you take will eventually make its way to your baby. Take a pregnancy test to confirm your pregnancy before you start taking the pills again.
Schedule Free Testing
At the Pregnancy Care Center, we offer confidential, no-cost pregnancy testing. Make an appointment for your free test today.