What Happens If You Take Two Birth Control Pills in One Day?

If you accidentally took two birth control pills in one day, do not panic. This is a common situation and typically does not cause serious problems. Taking an extra pill means you received a slightly higher dose of hormones than intended. You may experience mild nausea (the most common side effect of a double dose), breast tenderness, spotting or light bleeding, and headache. These symptoms are usually temporary and resolve within a day or two. What to do next: continue taking the rest of your pills as scheduled, which means you will finish your pack one day early. Start your next pack as normal. Your contraceptive protection should not be affected. If you missed a pill and are catching up by taking two, be aware that missing pills - especially in the first week of a pack - can reduce effectiveness. If you missed more than one pill, consult your physician or pharmacist about whether backup contraception (such as condoms) is needed. The key concern is not taking an extra pill, but missing pills entirely. Consistent daily use is the most important factor in maintaining contraceptive effectiveness. *This article is for informational purposes only.*

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Content reviewed by licensed Canadian physicians. Last updated February 2026.