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Oral contraceptive missed pills — GPhC CRA MCQ

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ModeratePatient Counselling and Pharmaceutical CareOral contraceptive missed pillsGPhC CRA

A patient taking a combined oral contraceptive missed two tablets in week one and had unprotected sex yesterday. They ask for advice at the pharmacy counter. What is the most appropriate action?

Educational content. Not a substitute for clinical judgement or local policy.

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Correct answer: C — Assess need for emergency contraception and advise missed-pill precautions

Missing two combined pills in week one with recent unprotected sex may require emergency contraception and additional contraception precautions. Advice depends on pill type, timing and local guidance. The patient should continue or restart pills according to missed-pill guidance rather than stopping the pack. Taking the whole strip would cause adverse effects and not reliably prevent pregnancy.

Reference: FSRH guidance; BNF