Does the oral contraceptive pill (OCP) cause birth defects if it is mistakenly taken during pregnancy?
Many women are concerned about the possibility of birth defects with oral contraceptive use. Fortunately, studies have found no association between OCPs and birth defects A 1990 review of the literature (meta-analysis) found no overall increase in birth defects (RR 1.0, (95% CI, 0.8-1.2). Because the progestin hormone in the OCP is so low, there is no risk of causing masculinization of the female fetus. In summary: The OCP does not cause birth defects. If the OCP is mistakenly taken at the time of conception or in early pregnancy, it will not harm the fetus.
