Should You Continue Taking Birth Control After Your Period Starts?

If you take the placebo pill of your birth control and your period starts, should you continue taking the pills?

I would like to ask, I started taking the first pack of Yaz 24+4 on the second day of my period, January 21, and finished all the active pills by February 13.
Then, on February 14, when I took the first white inactive pill, my period started.
Should I finish the remaining three white inactive pills before starting the second pack of Yaz, or can I skip them and directly start with the first pink active pill of the second pack? Additionally, I had a cold on February 7 and took cold medication and antibiotics; will this have any impact?

F, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/15

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, you can stop taking the remaining pills once your period starts.
Begin taking a new pack of contraceptive pills on the fifth day of your period.
Wishing you good health!

Reply Date: 2023/02/15

More Info

When it comes to taking birth control pills, particularly the combination pill like Yaz (which is what you referred to as 悅姿), it’s important to understand how the cycle works and what to do when your period starts.
In your case, you started taking Yaz on the second day of your period (January 21) and continued until February 13, when you finished the active pills. On February 14, you began taking the inactive (placebo) pills, and that’s when your period started.
The general guideline for taking combination birth control pills is that you should continue taking all the pills in the pack, including the inactive ones, even if your period starts. This is because the inactive pills are included to help you maintain the habit of taking a pill every day, and they also allow for a withdrawal bleed, which mimics a natural menstrual cycle.
So, in your situation, you should finish the remaining three inactive pills before starting the next pack of Yaz. After you complete the inactive pills, you can start the next pack with the first active pill (the pink one). This ensures that you maintain the correct hormone levels and continue to be protected against pregnancy.

Regarding your question about the cold medication and antibiotics you took on February 7, it’s important to note that most common antibiotics do not affect the efficacy of birth control pills. However, some antibiotics, like rifampin, can reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives. If you were prescribed a different antibiotic, it’s unlikely to have impacted your birth control. If you have concerns about specific medications, it’s always best to consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice.

In summary, continue taking the remaining inactive pills, then start your next pack of Yaz as scheduled. If you have any further concerns about your medications or birth control, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for clarification. They can provide you with the most accurate information based on your health history and the specific medications you are taking.
Additionally, if you experience any unusual symptoms or have concerns about your menstrual cycle or contraceptive effectiveness, it’s always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider. They can help address any issues and ensure that you are using your birth control effectively.

Similar Q&A

Should You Continue Birth Control Pills After Stopping?

Hello, doctor. I started taking the oral contraceptive pill for the first time on the fifth day of my menstrual cycle and took it for seven days before stopping. About six days later, my period came. I believe my cycle has been disrupted. If I currently do not have a need for con...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, based on your description, there is currently no need for supplementation. However, if the bleeding continues or if your cycle remains irregular, it would be best to consult a gynecologist. Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr. Chang.

Understanding Birth Control Use Before and After Menstruation

1. Is it okay to take birth control pills after your period? 2. If I previously took 28 pills and experienced some bleeding on the 22nd day of the placebo pills, could that be my period? 3. Can I start taking the 28-day birth control pills the day after my period ends?

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the first time you take birth control pills, it is recommended to start on the first day of your menstrual cycle. A 28-day pack of birth control pills includes 21 active pills and 7 placebo pills, during which your period will occur in the last 7 days. Therefore, after fin...

Using Birth Control Pills After Menstruation: What You Need to Know

If you started taking the emergency contraceptive pill after your period instead of before or during, you do not need to stop taking the medication immediately. You should continue taking the pills until you finish the current pack, and then start a new cycle with your next perio...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, based on your description, I recommend that you continue taking your current medication and add another form of contraception for one week. Thank you! Wishing you safety and health. Dr. Chang

Starting Birth Control Pills: Can She Begin on Day 7 After Her Period?

Hello Doctor: I would like to ask if my girlfriend can start taking her first pack of oral contraceptives on the seventh day after her period, as she is currently traveling abroad.

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the recommended method for taking a 21-day oral contraceptive pill is to start on the first day of your menstrual period. It is best to take the pill at the same time every day for a continuous period of 21 days. After completing the 21 pills, take a break for seven days, ...