Can Birth Control Pills Delay Your Period? Breakthrough Bleeding

Pre-menstrual eating?

Hello, Doctor.
I usually take oral contraceptives for menstrual regulation, and my periods are quite regular.
My last effective pill pack ended on May 6, and I started taking the placebo pills on May 7.
I expect my period to start on May 9, Wednesday, after taking the third placebo pill.
However, since I have plans over the weekend, I wanted to delay my period until next week.
Therefore, I started a new pack of contraceptive pills on May 7.
On May 6, I noticed some light spotting, and there was also some light spotting on May 7.
Does this mean that my attempt to delay my period has failed, and my period is still coming? The amount is very light and not like the first day of my period.
Should I stop taking the contraceptive pills, or can I take two pills at once to prevent my period from coming? Thank you!

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/05/09

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

I usually take oral contraceptives for menstrual regulation, and my periods are quite regular.
After finishing the third inactive pill, my previous pack of active pills was completed on May 6, and I started the inactive pills on May 7.
I expect my period to start on May 9, Wednesday, after taking the third inactive pill.
However, since I have plans for the weekend, I wanted to delay my period until next week, so I started a new pack of contraceptives on May 7.
On May 6, I noticed some light spotting, and there was also some light spotting on May 7.
My question is, does this count as a failed attempt to delay my period since it seems to be starting, although the amount is very light and not like the first day of my period? Should I stop taking the contraceptive pills, or can I take two pills at once to strengthen the effect and prevent my period from coming? Answer: Yes, you can take two pills at once to strengthen the effect and prevent your period from coming.

Reply Date: 2018/05/09

More Info

Birth control pills are a common method used to regulate menstrual cycles, and they can indeed delay your period under certain circumstances. When taken correctly, hormonal contraceptives can provide a reliable way to manage your menstrual cycle, allowing you to skip periods or delay them if needed. However, breakthrough bleeding, which is light bleeding or spotting that occurs between periods, can sometimes happen, especially when starting a new pack of pills or if pills are missed.

In your case, you mentioned that you typically have a regular cycle, and you were planning to delay your period by starting a new pack of birth control pills immediately after finishing the previous one. This is a common practice known as "skipping" or "delaying" your period. However, the presence of light spotting or bloodstains on the days you expected your period to start could indicate a few things.

1. Breakthrough Bleeding: This is often a result of hormonal fluctuations when starting a new pack of pills. It can occur if your body is adjusting to the hormones in the pills or if the pills are not taken consistently. Breakthrough bleeding is usually lighter than a regular period and may not last as long.

2. Effectiveness of the Pills: If you have been taking your birth control pills as directed, the chances of an unintended pregnancy are low. However, if you missed any doses or took them at irregular times, this could affect their effectiveness and lead to unexpected bleeding.

3. Continuing the Pills: If you are experiencing light spotting, it is generally advisable to continue taking your pills as scheduled. Taking two pills at once to try to stop the bleeding is not recommended without consulting your healthcare provider, as it may not be effective and could lead to increased side effects.

4. Consulting a Healthcare Provider: If the spotting continues or if you have concerns about the bleeding, it would be wise to consult with your healthcare provider. They can help determine if what you are experiencing is normal or if there is an underlying issue that needs to be addressed.

In summary, while birth control pills can be used to delay your period, breakthrough bleeding can occur, especially when starting a new pack or if there have been inconsistencies in taking the pills. It is important to monitor your symptoms and consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current situation.

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