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As summer travel season heats up, many are eagerly packing their bags for a much-needed getaway. However, Jaanki Kotecha, a Pharmacist Independent Prescriber at Hello Eve, has issued a crucial warning to women about three common contraceptive mistakes that are easily made when traveling abroad. These mistakes, if not addressed, can lead to unintended consequences, including unplanned pregnancies.
Kotecha emphasizes the importance of planning ahead to avoid these pitfalls. She explains, “Your long-awaited summer holiday is finally here, but amidst all the excitement, it’s essential to remember that taking care of your contraception is just as important as remembering your passport. A few simple steps can ensure that you enjoy your vacation without any unwelcome surprises.”
Time Zone Confusion
One of the most common issues women face while traveling is adjusting to different time zones, which can complicate the regular use of contraceptive pills. For women who rely on the progesterone-only pill or combination pill, it’s crucial to take the medication at the same time every day to maintain its effectiveness. Traveling to a different time zone can disrupt this routine, potentially compromising the pill’s effectiveness.
“To stay on track, set a daily alarm or a recurring calendar notification on your phone,” advises Kotecha. “This small step can help you remember to take your pill at the correct time, even if your daily schedule is unpredictable while traveling. Missing the appropriate time window or forgetting altogether means you may need to use a secondary form of contraception, such as condoms, to ensure protection.”
Gastrointestinal Issues and Contraceptive Effectiveness
Another potential issue when traveling is the impact of gastrointestinal problems, which are not uncommon during trips abroad. Whether caused by unfamiliar food, air travel, or contaminated water, these problems can interfere with the absorption of oral contraceptives.
Kotecha explains, “It takes about two to three hours for your body to fully absorb a contraceptive pill. If you vomit within this time frame after taking the pill, it may not be absorbed properly, which can reduce its effectiveness. In such cases, it’s important to take another pill immediately, provided you are not sick again.”
For those taking the progestogen-only pill, vomiting within two hours of ingestion means that the pill may not work as intended. Therefore, carrying backup contraceptive methods or being aware of emergency contraceptive options is advisable when traveling.
Safe Storage of Contraceptives
Finally, Kotecha reminds travelers about the importance of safely storing contraceptives. It might seem straightforward, but losing a suitcase or having it delayed can leave you without your necessary medications, including contraceptives.
“It’s every traveler’s nightmare to arrive at baggage claim only to discover that your suitcase hasn’t made the journey with you. To avoid this, always pack your contraceptives and any other essential medications in your carry-on luggage,” she advises.
By being mindful of these common mistakes and taking proactive steps to avoid them, women can enjoy their holidays with peace of mind. Proper preparation is key to ensuring that your vacation remains stress-free and that you don’t return home with any unexpected ‘souvenirs.’
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