[Brandye]

To get everyone on the same page, Ocella is a generic that is the equivalent of Yaz.

The half hour variation in time of taking is not a problem. Most of the brochures with the various birth control pills say that you should use an additional contraceptive for a week (we older physicians usually recommend a complete cycle) after starting the pill. So with a week gone from the missed pill, you should be safe. The spotting you describe indicates that the level of hormone in your system did fall below the "therapeutic level" but the week SHOULD have you covered. Missing the pill has your body confused.

To be extra safe, you can take a Plan B (either single pill or two variety). You can expect that your cycle will be messed up for a while if you do take it. You can call the nurse at your prescriber for advice on using Plan B and when to restart your Ocella.