HomeAnswersObstetrics and Gynecologyappendectomy

Had an appendectomy last week, they started me on antibiotics, Flagyl, through an IV. Would this affect my birth control?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I had an appendectomy last week and they have started me on antibiotics, Flagyl, through an IV. Would this affect my birth control? Should I be using other protection?
Answered by Dr. Kamalpreet Kaur Nagpal

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Kamalpreet Kaur Nagpal is an Obstetrician and Gynecologist with extensive clinical experience in women’s health. She specializes in providing comprehensive care across all stages of a woman’s life, beyond just pregnancy. Her expertise includes menstrual disorders, fertility issues, menopause management, and preventive gynecological care, ensuring personalized and holistic treatment. Dr. Nagpal is dedicated to promoting long-term wellness and addressing the unique health needs of women.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Flagyl (Metronidazole) as such has no effect on birth control. You need not take any extra precautions for the sake of Flagyl itself.

But, if you were on pills earlier and had to discontinue due to surgery, then, of course, you need other protection.

To know the methods of birth control, consult an obstetrician and gynecologist online.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At October 16, 2014
Reviewed At May 6, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Kamalpreet Kaur Nagpal is an Obstetrician and Gynecologist with extensive clinical experience in women’s health. She specializes in providing comprehensive care across all stages of a woman’s life, beyond just pregnancy. Her expertise includes menstrual disorders, fertility issues, menopause management, and preventive gynecological care, ensuring personalized and holistic treatment. Dr. Nagpal is dedicated to promoting long-term wellness and addressing the unique health needs of women.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

3,041Visits prepared today
4.8/5User rating
~60 secAverage completion time
Companion

Antibiotics and Birth Control Companion

How it works

It's common to wonder how different medications might affect your birth control. Here's what you need to know about antibiotics, specifically Metronidazole, and their potential impact on contraception.

1

Metronidazole
Flagyl

2

Hormonal
Action

3

General
Interactions

4

Metronidazole
Effect

5

Surgery
Considerations

6

Backup
Protection

Important Medication Information

Medications should be taken after consulting a physician. The dosages will be prescribed by the physician. Do not alter, start, or stop medications without consulting a healthcare professional.

This information is based on general medical guidance. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice; consult a qualified clinician.

Always consult a doctor before taking medication; self-medication carries serious health risks. Take exact prescribed doses, and never start, change, or stop treatment without medical supervision.
Dr. Kamalpreet Kaur Nagpal
Dr. Kamalpreet Kaur Nagpal

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Consult this doctor

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Kamalpreet Kaur Nagpal is an Obstetrician and Gynecologist with extensive clinical experience in women’s health. She specializes in providing comprehensive care across all stages of a woman’s life, beyond just pregnancy. Her expertise includes menstrual disorders, fertility issues, menopause management, and preventive gynecological care, ensuring personalized and holistic treatment. Dr. Nagpal is dedicated to promoting long-term wellness and addressing the unique health needs of women.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Consult other doctors in the same speciality
Listen to related tracks in our music library

Related Questions

I am allergic to Flagyl. Is there any alternative?

Had an appendectomy last week, they started me on antibiotics, Flagyl, through an IV. Would this affect my birth control?

Is it fine to take Metronidazole and Tergynan during pregnancy?

Delayed Periods: When to Suspect Pregnancy?

Emergency Contraception: Alleviate Anxiety About Unwanted Pregnancy

When will liver abscess get cured with Metronidazole?

Comprehensive Second Opinion

Read answers about:

metronidazolecontraception methodsappendectomy

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Obstetrics and Gynecology

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.