How to skip your period
You may have heard that you can skip your period while on the pill. But is it really a good idea?
Here’s how it works and what you should know before making that choice.
Your menstrual cycle
When you’re not using hormonal contraception, your body has a pattern of changes it goes through each month. Four main hormones influence this cycle:
• Progesterone
• Estrogen
• Luteinizing hormone (LH)
• Follicular Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
These work together to thicken the uterine lining in preparation for pregnancy. Around mid-cycle, ovulation occurs. If the egg isn’t fertilised, hormone levels drop and the lining sheds, this is your period.
Your cycle on the pill
The combined oral contraceptive pill contains synthetic versions of oestrogen and progesterone. Taking it daily keeps hormone levels steady, preventing ovulation. When you take the inactive (or sugar) pills, hormone levels temporarily drop, which causes the lining of the uterus to shed.
Because hormone levels have been stable, the lining that forms is usually thinner, which means bleeding is often lighter than a natural period. This is called a withdrawal bleed rather than a true menstrual period, and it can be safely delayed under the right circumstances.
How can I skip my period?
Many people choose to delay their withdrawal bleed by continuing straight onto the next pack of active pills, rather than taking the inactive ones. This maintains steady hormone levels and prevents shedding of the uterine lining.
If you plan to do this, it’s best to first discuss it with your GP or pharmacist to make sure your particular pill type is suitable, as some have different hormone combinations.
Why might someone choose to skip their period?
Common reasons include:
• Convenience: for travel, exams or special events.
• Reducing period pain: less frequent cramping or discomfort.
• Practicality: fewer periods may mean fewer sanitary products and less disruption.
Is it safe to skip your period?
For most people using a standard combined oral contraceptive, occasionally skipping the withdrawal bleed is considered safe. However, some people may experience spotting or breakthrough bleeding after several months. If that occurs, it’s generally recommended to allow a withdrawal bleed before resuming continuous use.
Always check with your doctor before making any changes to your pill routine, particularly if you’re on a pill with varying hormone levels (such as Trifeme) or a progesterone-only pill, as guidance differs.
Unsure what’s right for you?
If you’re uncertain about how to manage your contraception or whether continuous use is appropriate, speak with your GP or a qualified healthcare professional. They can explain the options available and help you decide what’s best for your individual health and circumstances.
References
Tailored regimens of combined hormonal contraception. Therapeutic Guidelines Ltd (eTG March 2021 edition).Published December 2020. Amended March 2021
Contraception. (n.d.).
Disclaimer: This information is not intended to be used as medical advice or a substitute for your own practitioner’s advice, nor is it intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment for any illness/disease.
