How to Manage Birth Control Pills When Your Period Arrives Early

If your period arrives early, you should continue taking your birth control pills as scheduled. Do not skip any doses. If you are concerned about the early onset of your period or if you experience any unusual symptoms, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider for further guidance?

Hello, doctor.
I would like to ask about my recent experience with the 28-count contraceptive pill (I'm in my second month).
My period started when I had 10 pills left (6 active pills + 4 placebo pills).
Should I continue taking the remaining pills and then start a new pack, or should I just start a new pack directly?

Azhai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/28

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

What you need is not medical consultation but rather a supplement in sexual education credits.
For such questions, it is recommended to refer to the National Health Administration's "Sexual Happiness e-Learning" or the Obstetrics and Gynecology Society's "Consultation Guide for Adolescent Contraception" at http://goo.gl/dc6PfW.

Hello, the suggestion is to continue taking the medication as scheduled without stopping.
Once your body adjusts to the contraceptive, any abnormal bleeding should cease.
However, if irregular bleeding persists for more than three months or if there is heavy bleeding, you should consult a physician for advice.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2016/05/28

More Info

When managing birth control pills, particularly when your period arrives earlier than expected, it's essential to understand how to navigate the situation effectively. In your case, you are using a 28-day pack of birth control pills, which typically includes 21 active pills and 7 placebo (or sugar) pills. The active pills contain hormones that prevent ovulation, while the placebo pills allow for a withdrawal bleed, similar to a menstrual period.

If your period starts while you still have active pills remaining, you should continue taking the remaining pills as prescribed. This means you should finish the current pack, including the active pills and the placebo pills. The hormones in the active pills will continue to provide contraceptive protection, and it’s important not to skip any doses, as this could increase the risk of unintended pregnancy.

After you finish the entire pack, including the placebo pills, you can start a new pack immediately. It is generally recommended to start the new pack after the placebo week, even if your period is still ongoing. This is because the hormones in the new pack will help regulate your cycle and provide continuous contraceptive coverage.

If you find that your periods are consistently arriving early or if you experience any unusual symptoms, such as heavy bleeding or severe cramping, it’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They can assess whether your current birth control method is suitable for you or if adjustments need to be made.

Additionally, it’s important to remember that birth control pills can affect individuals differently. Some may experience changes in their menstrual cycle, including lighter periods, irregular bleeding, or even missed periods. These changes can be normal, especially during the first few months of starting a new contraceptive method. However, if you have concerns about the effectiveness of your birth control or if you experience side effects that are bothersome, discussing these with your healthcare provider is crucial.

In summary, when your period arrives early while on birth control pills, continue taking the remaining pills in the pack, including the placebo pills. After completing the pack, start a new one without interruption. If you have ongoing concerns about your menstrual cycle or the effectiveness of your birth control, seek advice from your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

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