Birth Control Pill: Importance of Daily Timing & Missed Pill Guidelines

Question
Hi. I was wondering how important is it for a woman to take her birth control pill at the same time everyday? Isn't it more important to remember to take one everyday period?

Answer
It is important to remember to take one pill every day, and if you miss one pill, take two the next day. If you miss two pills, take two the next day and two the day after. If you miss three pills in a row, throw the entire pack away and start another pack on the next Sunday. HOwever, if you want to avoid any break-through bleeding, try to take the pills at the same time, each day. This is especially important for the progesterone-only pills because the efficacy may lessen if you do not take it at the correct time. The other pills can be taken at any time and the timing is not critical. However, by taking the pill at the same time each day establishes a habit so that if you miss the pill you will know it.