When it comes to preventing pregnancy, hormonal birth control pills are among the most popular methods. But a common question people often ask is: do birth control pills expire? The short answer is yes—and using expired contraceptive pills can compromise their effectiveness. In this article, we’ll explore what expiration means, the risks of taking expired pills, how long they last, and how to handle them safely.
Also Read: Can Birth Control Make You Tired?
What Does the Birth Control Expiration Date Really Mean?
All medications, including birth control pills, have a printed expiration date, usually 12–24 months after manufacture. This date marks the timeframe during which the manufacturer guarantees the full strength and effectiveness of the drug.
- Once the birth control expiration date passes, the active ingredients—mainly estrogen and progestin—can start to degrade.
- This breakdown may reduce the pills’ ability to prevent ovulation, thicken cervical mucus, or alter the uterine lining, making pregnancy prevention less reliable.
Can You Take Expired Birth Control?
Is Expired Birth Control Still Effective?
Studies on other medications show some may retain 90% of their potency long after expiration, but this does not include hormonal birth control. There is no scientific data confirming whether expired birth control pills retain enough hormone to reliably prevent pregnancy.
- Does expired birth control still work? Possibly, but effectiveness is unpredictable.
- Can you take expired birth control pills? Technically yes—but you shouldn’t if avoiding pregnancy is your goal.
What Happens if You Take Expired Birth Control Pills?
Taking expired contraceptive pills might not make you sick, but they can fail to prevent pregnancy. If you unknowingly use expired pills:
- Stop immediately.
- Use a backup method like condoms.
- Start a new, in-date pack as soon as possible.
Also Read: How to Fix Dryness from Birth Control
Are There Side Effects of Taking Expired Birth Control Pills?
The side effects of taking expired birth control pills are not well-documented. Unlike some drugs that become toxic, expired pills typically lose effectiveness rather than becoming harmful.
- There’s no evidence that expired pills cause sickness.
- The biggest concern is unintended pregnancy due to reduced hormone potency.
How Long Are Birth Control Pills Good For?
Birth Control Shelf Life
- Most pills are good for up to 1–2 years from the manufacture date.
- You can find the birth control pills expiration date on the blister pack or box.
- If it only lists a month and year, the pills remain effective through the end of that month.
Storage Affects Shelf Life
Improper storage can shorten the shelf life of your pills:
- Avoid storing pills in hot or humid places (like bathrooms or cars).
- Keep them at room temperature in a dry place, such as a drawer or cabinet.
What to Do If Your Birth Control Is Expired
If you discover your birth control has expired, here’s what you should do:
- Do not take expired pills.
- Use an alternative method (e.g., condoms) until you get a fresh supply.
- Dispose of expired pills properly:
- Mix with coffee grounds or cat litter.
- Seal in a plastic bag before trashing.
- Scratch out personal information on the package.
Can You Take Other Expired Birth Control Methods?
Different forms of contraception also have expiration timelines:
- Condoms can degrade and become ineffective or tear.
- IUDs, implants, and vaginal rings all have fixed durations for safe and effective use.
- Emergency contraception pills also expire—check dates before using them.
How to Avoid Using Expired Pills
- Check expiration dates when you receive multiple packs.
- Use older packs first to avoid waste.
- Take your pill at the same time every day to maintain maximum effectiveness.
If you often forget or worry about expiration, consider long-term options like IUDs or implants, which don’t require daily use.
FAQs About Expired Birth Control Pills
Conclusion
In conclusion, birth control pills do expire, and while taking expired pills may not make you sick, they can significantly reduce in effectiveness, increasing the risk of unplanned pregnancy. The hormones in these pills degrade over time, and without adequate research specifically on expired birth control, it’s safest to rely only on pills that are within their expiration date. Always store them properly in a cool, dry place, check the expiration date before use, and dispose of expired packs responsibly. When in doubt, consult your healthcare provider to ensure your contraceptive method is both safe and reliable.
Disclaimer: The content on Wellness Derive is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a healthcare provider for medical concerns.
