Question about BCPs & Skipping Period
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| Fri, 11-12-2004 - 11:34pm |
I posted a few weeks ago when I was looking for info on skipping the placebo week of pills in order to avoid having a period on my vacation. Well, I am happy to report I did just that on Lo/Ovral, and it worked! I also reeeeally like Lo/Ovral because I have had virtually no side affects. Highly recommended!
Here is my issue and questions:
I am now into the second pack of pills, having gone back to back on 2 packs with no placebos. I am starting to feel quite uncomfortable having skipped a period: I am now having major bloating, swollen lower belly, tender breasts. Your basic beached whale syndrome. I'm just feeling like I WANT to have my period and have some relief.
1) So I am wondering, is it safe to stop after the 2nd week of the active pills of the 2nd pack and go into the green ones? (That is, entirely skip the 3rd week of active pills).
2) Furthermore, if it is safe to do this, I assume I would just start the new pack immediately after this one?
3) And will I be fully protected against pregnancy?
Any advice is appreciated, as my OB/GYN is on vacation right now.
Thanks!!!!

Really, if it's that unbearable, you can do it, but I would use back up protection for at least the first 10 days. If you can stick it out for one more week, then you dont have anything to worry about at all.
Jenn
I'm glad you were able to delay your period around you vacation. Now, AF will probably be heavier when she comes.
1) So I am wondering, is it safe to stop after the 2nd week of the active pills of the 2nd pack and go into the green ones? (That is, entirely skip the 3rd week of active pills).
You can stop mid pack for your period. If you do, keep the unused actives from your current pack as spares in case you loose or vomit a pill.
2) Furthermore, if it is safe to do this, I assume I would just start the new pack immediately after this one?
It's safe, BUT, since you didn't take all 21 actives consecutively you probably won't be protected for the normal 7 day placebo period. I know you feel really Blahhhh! I think I would probably try to stick it out and take the last active weeks pills. If you can't, then if I were you I'd use back-up for your hormone free interval and for at least the first 7 active pills in the new pack.
3) And will I be fully protected against pregnancy?
Stopping mid pack I don't think it’s known how long your protection would last. You don't have to take the full 7 hormone free days but BCPs weren't tested for effectiveness when used this way. So, as I said, I would use backup during your hormone free days and for at least the first 7 active pills in your next pack.
Let us know what you decide, ok?
Good luck,
Jill
well, i feel kind of gross and fat and a teency bit queasy, but i think i am going to try to stick it out. it is really just 2 more weeks to relief. 2 more weeks of active pills. if i can make it this far i can go 2 more weeks, right??
anyway, it is nice to know that there is the option of skipping a periodfor special occasions if need be.
I really think Lo/Ovral is awesome. I've tried so many pills over the years, and have always had unbearable side effects like weight gain, moodiness, water retention, acne, hair growth, vaginal discharde, food cravings, melasma. This is the 1st one ever that has given me virtually no side effects (that is, with the exception of skipping the placebo week!). My skin is clearer than it's been in years, and I am keeping the weight off! (well, except for the double up month where I'm experiencing a bit of water retention/sore boobs). Alesse was good too, except for horrible cystic acne.
thanks everybody.
:-)
As a tip for water retention, this really works:
dilute 4 oz. of 100%, unsweetened cranberry juice (Knudsen brand is great) with 32 onces of water, and drink 2 of these a day. Major water flush out!! :-) This really works!
thanks again!
If you want to quit early and use backup, cool! If you want to wait it out, that's cool too! And if you want to call your pharmacist, that'd probably be a great idea!
Good luck!
Co-cl for Birth Control