Is extended cycle birth control safe?

Research shows that continuous-cycle pills are safe to use. Experts assert that there’s no biological need to have a monthly period if you are using hormonal contraception.

Is it bad to take the pill continuously?

It is safe to take the pill for as many years as you like, either using the regular method, or the continuous method. The side effects from taking the pill continuously are the same as taking the pill in the regular way.

Is it bad to be on the pill for 10 years?

Answer From Yvonne Butler Tobah, M.D. As long as you are generally healthy, you can safely take birth control pills for however long you need birth control or until you reach menopause. This applies to both combination estrogen-progestin and progestin-only birth control pills.

When is the best time to stop birth control pills?

You can stop the pill on your own any time — no need to finish your pack. Your menstrual cycle may get thrown off, but your period should come back within 3 months.

What are the side effects of the extended cycle pill?

Women’s satisfaction with their contraception, compliance in taking the pills on time, and discontinuation rates are not significantly different between traditional and extended cycle regimens. With all extended-cycle COCPs, breakthrough bleeding is the most common side effect, although it tends to decrease over time.

What are the side effects of birth control pills?

Become ill with vomiting or diarrhea, which may impair absorption of the medication Unpredictable bleeding resulting from the use of continuous or extended-cycle birth control pills usually decreases with time.

How often do you get your period with extended cycle birth control?

You will not have a menstrual period every month while you are taking an extended-cycle birth control pill. Instead, your period should occur every 12 weeks. The 91-day birth control pack contains three trays with cards that hold 84 “active” pills and seven “reminder” pills. You must use the pills in a certain order to keep you on a regular cycle.

Can a birth control pill cause you to bleed?

Answer From Shannon K. Laughlin-Tommaso, M.D. Spotting or bleeding between periods (breakthrough bleeding) can occur with any birth control pill, especially during the first few months of use.