Monthly periods could be just a normal occurrence for some women. But for most, it is a major inconvenience and a health concern. Birth control is widely known to help women prevent pregnancy. Wouldn’t it be nice if you can control when to have your period as well, and at the same time decide if you want to get pregnant? It is also practical as it lessens your expenses on menstrual hygiene products.
Why skip your period?
Why not, right? Periods aren’t fun, and it sometimes messes up the most important events in a woman’s life – honeymoon, travel, vacation, or a job interview. The list could go on, and more than events, you may want to skip your period for tons of reasons, including:
- avoiding painful menstruation
- avoiding mood swings
- avoiding cramps
- avoiding migraines
- preventing complications from bleeding disorders
- help with sleep issues
- preventing breakouts
Is it safe?
According to research, using birth control to skip a period poses little to no risks. It is as normal as having a regular menstrual cycle. The hormones shield your uterus, keeping the inner lining thin. That’s why you don’t experience periods.
You’re actually not having a true period when you’re taking birth control pills. It is called withdrawal bleed; you’re not building up your uterine lining. Withdrawal bleed is unnecessary.
This is not a new concept, to begin with. It has been in the medical studies since the 1960’s. Doctors have been prescribing birth control pills off-label not only to avoid pregnancy but to help manage the serious menstrual-related symptoms and disorders mentioned above.
Skipping your period doesn’t mean you might get pregnant. It doesn’t compromise the efficacy of your birth control. In fact, skipping your period for a certain amount of time may have lifestyle and health benefits too.
How long can you safely go without a period? Women under 40 can go as long as 84 days, lowering the number of periods per year from thirteen to four. If you hate having your period, it is going to be a bliss!
How to Safely Skip Your Period on Birth Control
To skip a period using a traditional combined pill, you need to take your active pills every day without a break. Have at least two or three packs of your birth control pills ready, and follow the steps below on how to do it right:
- Plan ahead and set which month you want to skip your period on.
- Take your pills normally on the prior month. This is your first pack on the plan.
- Do not take the inactive pills (placebo) on your first pack. Once you’ve taken all the active pills in your first pack, open your second pack and start with day1 on it right away.
- Take the pills in your second pill pack normally and regularly.
- Once you’ve reached the placebo pills again in the second pill pack, withdrawal bleed or period should return.
- Take note that you can extend your period delay safely up to three pill packs.
Using birth control patches
For birth control patch, it’s relatively easy. Skip your patch-free week and put a new one right away, meaning you’d never be without a patch.
Using a vaginal ring
If you’re using NuvaRing, just change the old ring out and swap it with a new one. Don’t forget to regularly change your ring weekly on exactly the same day every time. If you’re using Annorvera, ask your doctor first, the brand doesn’t explicitly outline skipping periods, although it is also possible.
Using other birth control methods
If you’re using another birth control alternative like IUD or the mini pill, but unfortunately, you cannot skip your period on those birth control methods. If you are looking into switching, please consult your health care provider first.
Conclusion
Skipping your period could mean you’ll be able to focus well and give your best on that job interview, enjoy a vacation more with someone special, or even wear that pristine wedding gown of your dreams worry free!
Women who suffer from serious menstrual symptoms can also have an advantage and take a pain-free break for a while. Having the power over your period can help you a lot physically and emotionally.
However, if you are not using contraception and don’t have regular periods, there could be an underlying condition. It’s better you see your doctor first.
Healthcare providers approve that you don’t need to have a period when you’re on the pill. The best part is, it’s reliable, safe and easy!
