Types

There are low-dose and regular-dose birth control pills, with the types of hormones used causing the distinction in dosage. Those who are taking low-dose hormone birth control pills are more susceptible to antibiotics having an effect on the potency of the pill.

Considerations

According to the Mayo Clinic, the antibiotic rifampin is the only antibiotic that may truly dampen a birth control pill's effectiveness. Other antibiotics effects on birth control pills are considered to be overstated.

Benefits

The benefits of both the birth control pill and antibiotics far outweigh the negatives of mixing the two. The antibiotics will cure infection, while the pill protects you from pregnancy and reduces the symptoms associated with your period.

Prevention/Solution

If you are worried about mixing antibiotics with your birth control pills, use a barrier form of protection while engaging in intercourse, such as a condom or diaphragm.

Warning

Birth control pills, even when used properly, are only 99% effective. If you have missed a pill or changed the time that you take the pill each day, it might be wise to use a backup layer of barrier protection in the event of taking an antibiotic, regardless of which antibiotic you take.

Source:

Mayo Clinic