IUD & Antibiotics: Potential Birth Control Effectiveness Concerns

Question
I have had I IUD since last June. I took a few doses of Cipro in late december, had a small/short period in the beginning of January and took one pill of Keflex about a week or so after that. I have not seen any sign of my period yet though it is usually very light from the IUD. I have heard that antibiotics can compromise the effectiveness of BC, even with one pill once?

Answer
Dear Steph,

Typically antibiotics interfere with the effectiveness of the birth control PILL. IUDs prevent pregnancy in a completely different manner by affecting the movement of eggs and sperm to prevent fertilization. They also change the lining of the uterus and prevent implantation.

Antibiotics are thought to interfere with the metabolization of birth control pills. This isn't an issue with the IUD.

I hope this helps to ease your mind and answers your question. I wish you well.

Brenda