Summer is a season of sunshine, spontaneity, and schedules that don’t always stick to the usual routine. Whether you’re jet-setting across time zones, heading to the lake for the weekend, or simply soaking up more social time, it’s easy for birth control to become an afterthought. But staying consistent with your contraception is just as important in July as it is in January.
Here’s how to keep your birth control on track during the summer months — no matter where your plans take you.
1. Time Zone Changes: Timing Still Matters
If you’re on a birth control pill — especially a progestin-only pill (mini pill) — timing is key. These pills must be taken at the same time every day, with only a 3-hour window for effectiveness.
What to do when traveling:
- Adjust your pill schedule to your destination’s time zone before you go.
- Set reminders or alarms in your phone to keep consistency across time zones.
- Bring a small travel clock or use your phone in airplane mode to track your original time zone, if needed.
2. Weekend Getaways & Camping Trips: Pack Smart
Spontaneous summer escapes can throw off your routine — and birth control might not be the first thing on your packing list. But forgetting pills or leaving your patch behind can lead to gaps in protection.
Tips for staying covered:
- Pack enough birth control for your full trip — plus a few extra days in case of delays.
- Bring a backup method, like condoms, especially if you’re using pills, the patch, or the ring.
- If you’re going somewhere remote (like camping), consider methods that don’t require daily or weekly attention, like the IUD or implant. Our team can help you find something that is a fit for you.
3. Social Life & Alcohol: The Myths and Truths
Summer tends to bring more social events, patio drinks, and late nights. While alcohol doesn’t cancel out your birth control, it can affect your consistency and your decision-making.
What to know:
- Missing a pill due to drinking or forgetting it after a late night can reduce effectiveness.
- Vomiting within 2 hours of taking your pill (from illness or drinking) can also interfere with absorption — treat it like a missed pill.
- Always have condoms on hand, especially if you think your regular method could be compromised.
4. Heat and Storage Concerns
Extreme heat — like a car parked in the sun — can affect the effectiveness of pill packs, rings, and patches. Medications stored in high temperatures for prolonged periods may break down.
Protect your birth control:
- Keep it in a cool, dry place. Avoid glove compartments or beach bags that sit in the sun.
- Use an insulated bag or pack it with toiletries in your carry-on when flying.
5. Thinking Ahead: Changing Birth Control for the Season
If you’re planning a big summer trip, wedding, or back-to-back adventures, this could be a good time to talk to your provider at Premier Women’s Health about low-maintenance options like:
- The IUD (hormonal or copper)
- The implant (Nexplanon)
- The shot (Depo-Provera)
- The vaginal ring (NuvaRing or Annovera), which you can keep in for 3–4 weeks depending on the type
These methods don’t require daily tracking and are great for summer freedom.
When Things Don’t Go As Planned
If you miss the birth control window, what happens depends on the type of birth control you’re using — particularly for pills. We encourage you to talk with your provider but here’s a quick breakdown:
1. Combination Pills (estrogen + progestin)
- 1 missed pill (less than 24 hours late):
Take it as soon as you remember. You’re still protected. - 2 or more missed pills in a row:
Take the most recent pill as soon as possible, even if it means taking two in one day. Use a backup method (like condoms) for the next 7 days. - If you missed pills during the first week of your pack and had unprotected sex:
Emergency contraception may be recommended. Call our clinic to talk with your provider.
2. Progestin-Only Pills (Mini Pill)
- More than 3 hours late: You’re at risk of pregnancy. Take the missed pill as soon as you remember and use backup contraception (like condoms) for the next 48 hours.
Progestin-only pills are very time-sensitive — consistency is critical.
3. Other Methods
- Patch: If it’s off for more than 48 hours, apply a new patch and use backup for 7 days.
- Ring: If out for more than 3 hours (NuvaRing) or more than 2 hours (Annovera), rinse, reinsert, and use backup for 7 days.
- Shot (Depo): Delayed more than 15 weeks? Use backup and talk to your provider about next steps.
- IUD or Implant: No risk of missing; continuous protection.
When in Doubt
If you miss your window or aren’t sure what to do, use emergency contraception as a precaution and contact your provider for personalized advice.
Bottom Line
Summer should be carefree — but your birth control should never be. With a little planning, you can enjoy every trip, concert, and lakeside bonfire knowing you’re protected. If you’re considering a different method or have questions about managing your birth control this season, schedule a visit with your Premier Women’s Health provider.
Wishing you a safe and sunny summer — and peace of mind wherever it takes you.
Reviewed by physician assistant Becky Roverud, OBGYN West, and nurse practitioner Bethany Hjelle, Oakdale OBGYN.