For some women, periods are just a minor annoyance. For others, it can disrupt their daily life with pain, heavy bleeding, and other nasty symptoms. No matter which category you fall into, it’s probably safe to say that you would choose not to get your period if you could. But what you may not know is that with hormonal birth control, skipping your period is actually an option!
IUDs, birth control shots, and birth control pills can all be used to stop your period. The advantage of the pill is that you can use it to plan when you want to skip or have your period. Here’s what you need to know about it:
Is it safe to use birth control pills to skip your period?
You should always check with your doctor first, but medically-speaking, there’s no reason you need to have a monthly period. Menstruation isn’t physiologically necessary, so there’s no harm in skipping it. In fact, skipping your period with the pill is just as safe as taking hormonal birth control in the first place.
Are there any advantages to skipping your period?
Many women choose to skip their period with birth control to help manage menstrual symptoms, such as headaches/migraines, cramps, mood swings, and painful periods. It can also be very beneficial not to have a period if you have a condition that is worsened by it, such as endometriosis, PCOS, ovarian cysts, or anemia. Plus, skipping your period saves you money on menstrual products and is just more convenient for life in general.
Are there any disadvantages to skipping your period?
The only real drawback to skipping your period is the possibility of random breakthrough bleeding. This is more common within the first few months of not menstruating, and typically happens less over time as your body adjusts. It will also be more difficult to know if you are pregnant when you skip your period.
How do I use birth control pills to skip my period?
All you have to do to skip your period with the pill is skip the placebo week and take an active pill everyday. Just remember to have enough monthly packs on hand to account for the extra active pills you’ll need. To resume your normal periods again, simply take your monthly pack as normal without skipping the placebo week. Alternatively, you could also switch to a pill that suppresses your period for three months at a time (extended-cycle/continuous regimen pills).
For more information about birth control, how to use it, and the different options available to you, schedule an appointment with South Avenue Women’s Services. Our caring, compassionate medical professionals will be happy to discuss which option is right for you and provide you with a prescription or procedure for your chosen contraceptive.
Call us today at 585-271-3850 to make your appointment!