Can You Take Menstrual Delay Pills After Birth Control? Expert Answers

Can I take a menstrual delay pill after taking a contraceptive pill?

Hello, Doctor.
I have been taking oral contraceptives since February, and today (May 3) I started a new pack of Marvelon.
I plan to go on a trip during the Dragon Boat Festival (May 28-29) and calculated that I will finish this pack by May 23.
I have read online and heard from pharmacy staff that I can start a new pack of contraceptives immediately to delay my period.
Will this method have any side effects? Will it disrupt my menstrual cycle or contraceptive effectiveness?
If I take medication prescribed by a clinic to delay my period, will that be effective? Will it reduce the contraceptive effectiveness? After taking the period-delay medication, can I continue with the next pack of contraceptives as usual? If taking the clinic-prescribed medication is feasible, when should I start taking it? Which method of delaying my period is better?
Lastly, I have been experiencing vaginal dryness since I started taking contraceptives (I did not have this issue before, but I have taken Marvelon, Qlaira, and Dianne since February).
Is there a solution for this problem? I apologize for the many questions, and I appreciate your help!

zxc, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/09

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

I started taking oral contraceptives in February, and today (May 3rd) I began a new pack of Marvelon.
I plan to go on a trip during the Dragon Boat Festival at the end of May (May 28-29) and calculated that I will finish this pack by May 23rd.

1.
Both online sources and pharmacy staff have said that I can continue with a new pack of contraceptives to delay my period.
If I do this, will there be any side effects? Will my menstrual cycle or contraceptive effectiveness be disrupted?
Answer: In Taiwan, there are no extended-use oral contraceptives, but you can discard the placebo pills and continue using the active pills as a form of extended contraception.
Extended-use oral contraceptives are a safe and acceptable method of contraception and may be more effective than the traditional monthly cycle.
Most extended-use regimens can reduce the frequency of bleeding, although they may cause unexpected bleeding, which tends to decrease with prolonged use.
Women using extended-use oral contraceptives often experience relief from menstrual-related symptoms, particularly headaches.
2.
Is it feasible to take medication prescribed by a clinic to delay my period?
Answer: Yes, it is feasible.
3.
Will this reduce the effectiveness of contraception?
Answer: No, it will not.
4.
After finishing the period-delay medication, can I start the next pack of contraceptives normally? (If taking clinic-prescribed period-delay medication is feasible, when should I start taking it?)
Answer: You should start taking it on the first day of your period.
5.
Which method of delaying is better?
Answer: Continuously using active pills as an extended-use contraceptive is an over-the-counter option.
6.
I've been experiencing vaginal dryness after starting the contraceptive pills (I didn't have this issue before, but since starting Marvelon - Qlaira - Daylette - Marvelon in February).

Answer: Use K-Y jelly before sexual intercourse.

Reply Date: 2017/05/09

More Info

When it comes to managing menstrual cycles and the use of birth control pills, there are several important considerations to keep in mind. First, it’s essential to understand how hormonal contraceptives work and the implications of taking them continuously or in conjunction with menstrual delay pills.

Can You Take Menstrual Delay Pills After Birth Control?
Yes, you can take menstrual delay pills after starting a new pack of birth control pills. Many women use this method to postpone their periods for various reasons, such as vacations or special events. The general advice is that if you are already on a combined oral contraceptive pill (like the ones you mentioned: Meridiana, Qlaira, or others), you can simply start the next pack without a break to delay your period. This method is often effective, and many healthcare providers endorse it.

However, it’s crucial to consider a few factors:
1. Effectiveness: Continuing to take the birth control pills without a break maintains their contraceptive effectiveness. If you take the menstrual delay pills as directed, they should not interfere with the effectiveness of your birth control. However, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that this approach is suitable for your specific situation.

2. Side Effects: Some women may experience side effects when taking hormonal contraceptives continuously, such as breakthrough bleeding, nausea, or mood changes. If you have been experiencing vaginal dryness since starting the birth control pills, this could be a side effect of the hormones. Discussing this with your doctor is important, as they may recommend alternatives or solutions to alleviate this issue.

3. Menstrual Delay Pills: If you choose to take menstrual delay pills prescribed by your doctor, it’s essential to follow their instructions carefully. Typically, these pills should be taken a few days before your expected period. Your healthcare provider will give you specific guidance on when to start taking them based on your cycle.

4. Long-term Use: Using birth control pills to delay menstruation occasionally is generally safe for most women. However, if you find yourself needing to delay your period frequently, it may be worth discussing with your healthcare provider to explore other options or to assess whether your current contraceptive method is the best fit for you.

5. Alternatives: If you are experiencing significant side effects from your current birth control method, such as vaginal dryness, you might want to consider alternative contraceptive methods. Options include non-hormonal methods (like copper IUDs) or different hormonal formulations that may have fewer side effects.

In conclusion, while it is generally safe to take menstrual delay pills after starting a new pack of birth control pills, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that this approach is right for you. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and current medications. Additionally, addressing any side effects you are experiencing, such as vaginal dryness, is crucial for your overall comfort and well-being. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider to navigate your contraceptive options effectively.

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