Birth control pills are a widely used form of contraception that regulate hormones to prevent pregnancy. Like all medications, these pills have a defined shelf life, meaning they do expire. Understanding the implications of using expired birth control is important for continued effectiveness.
Understanding Medication Expiration
All medications, including birth control pills, have an expiration date to guarantee their full potency and safety. This date is determined through rigorous stability testing, ensuring the product maintains its strength, quality, and purity when stored as directed.
Over time, the active ingredients can degrade, losing their intended strength. This degradation is due to chemical changes, leading to a reduced amount of the active compound. The primary concern is a decrease in efficacy. The expiration date signifies the point at which the manufacturer no longer guarantees the medication will meet its labeled specifications.
Consequences of Using Expired Birth Control Pills
Using birth control pills past their expiration date primarily leads to reduced effectiveness. As the hormones in the pills degrade, their ability to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, and thin the uterine lining diminishes. This loss of potency directly increases the chance of unintended pregnancy.
While expired birth control pills are generally not considered harmful to consume, the main concern is their compromised contraceptive action. Their primary purpose is to prevent pregnancy, and this is undermined once they lose hormonal strength. Some individuals might also experience irregular bleeding or spotting, as hormonal levels may not be sufficient to regulate the menstrual cycle effectively.
Locating Expiration Dates and Proper Storage
The expiration date for birth control pills is typically printed on the packaging, such as the blister pack or outer box. This date usually includes a month and a year, indicating effectiveness until the last day of the stated month. Always check this date before starting a new pack.
Proper storage is important for maintaining the stability and effectiveness of birth control pills. Store pills in a cool, dry place, ideally at room temperature, away from extreme heat, cold, humidity, and direct sunlight. Avoid storing them in places like a bathroom cabinet, which often experiences fluctuating temperatures and humidity, or in a car where temperatures can become extreme. When disposing of expired or unused medication, it is best to use a drug take-back program at a local pharmacy or police station, or follow specific local guidelines, such as mixing the pills with an unappealing substance like dirt or coffee grounds before placing them in a sealed bag in the trash.