skip to main content

Missed combined oral contraceptive pills — DRCOG MCQ

Instant feedback + full explanation. One question, done properly.

HardContraception and Sexual HealthMissed combined oral contraceptive pillsDRCOG

A 22-year-old woman on a 21/7 combined oral contraceptive pill missed three pills in the first week after the pill-free interval and had unprotected sex yesterday. She wants to avoid pregnancy. What is the most appropriate management?

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

Reveal the answer and explanation

Correct answer: B — Take the most recent missed pill, continue pills and offer emergency contraception

Missing multiple pills in week 1 after a hormone-free interval creates pregnancy risk, so she should take the most recent missed pill, continue the pack, use condoms and be offered emergency contraception. Restarting a pill-free break worsens risk. Switching methods does not manage recent unprotected sex. The pearl is that missed-pill risk is greatest when the hormone-free interval is extended.

Reference: FSRH Combined Hormonal Contraception guideline