Maintaining Your Birth Control Schedule While Visiting a Different Time Zone

If you’re making summer travel plans, birth control may be the last thing on your mind. In fact, many women forget to take the pill or use another method of birth control while on vacation, often because of jet lag or confusion over time zone differences. You can prevent an unintentional pregnancy by taking a few simple steps to maintain your birth control schedule. First, make an appointment with a gynecologist at a women’s clinic to discuss taking birth control while on vacation.

Visiting Your Gynecologist

If you have any confusion over how to maintain your birth control schedule while traveling, your gynecologist can help you. You’ll also need to visit your gynecologist if you’re taking the birth control injection, Depo-Provera, and need a shot before you depart. If you’re taking the pill, make sure you have enough to take with you.

Traveling with Birth Control

Keep your birth control pills in their original container while traveling. Pack them in your carry-on bag if you plan to fly, rather than in your checked baggage. Doing so will help you maintain your schedule even if your checked baggage is lost. While out sightseeing, keep your pills in your handbag to enable you to take one on time, rather than having to rush back to the hotel.

Knowing When to Take the Pill

Even though you’re traveling between time zones, your body is still accustomed to taking the pill at your usual time. Take the pill at the normal time, rather than the time indicated in your new time zone. For example, if you usually take the pill at 6 p.m. and your new time zone is three hours behind, you should take the pill at 3 p.m. Remind yourself to take the pill by setting an alarm.

Women throughout Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia will find confidential, affordable women’s healthcare services at Washington Surgi-Clinic. Our gynecologists will be happy to help you learn about your birth control options and how to maintain your schedule while you’re travelling this summer. Give us a call today at (202) 659-9403 or visit us online to view the services available at our women’s clinic.