Which Health Shortcuts Are OK?

Missing Just One Birth-Control Pill

Risk Rating: 1

You should be OK. But as soon as you can, take the pill, even if that means doubling up the next day, says Vanessa Cullins, M.D., vice president of medical affairs for the Planned Parenthood Federation of America. "If you take two in one day but have been taking them consistently and correctly the rest of the month, you will be protected," says Cullins. You may experience some spotting from taking the pill late or even a little nausea from the double dose.

If you miss two pills in a row or a couple of doses in the course of a month, use a backup method of birth control.