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Question
I've been taking the combined pill for about five months now. I found out that if you take the packets back-to-back you can avoid having periods, so this is what I've been doing. Although I never take a break I'm still having periods. They are very light and irregular but can last for up to ten days.
Should I come off the pill? I am considering going on the injection instead but don't know if it will work after taking the pill in this way.
Answer
Certain combined contraceptive pills can be taken in a way where you run two packets back-to-back, which usually results in delaying periods. It's OK to do this occasionally with your doctor's advice. However, you should always discuss your plans with the service that supplies your pill if you intend to use your pill differently than set out in the instructions.
It sounds like it would be a good idea to contact your doctor (GP) to ask their advice. It's also important to let your doctor know that you have been running packs together. Only someone who is medically trained can advise you on how safe this is with the pill you are taking.
The injection is usually given during the first five days of someone's period. If a woman has the injection at this time, she will be immediately protected against becoming pregnant. If a woman has the injection on any other day she will not be protected for the first seven days, so she would need to use another method of contraception, such as condoms, during this time.
A doctor at Brook, a Family Planning Clinic or your local doctor (GP) can give you further information about this, and can discuss what might be the best method of contraception for you.
If you would like further information about your situation, you can speak to a nurse via the fpa helpline on 0845 310 1334, or NHS Direct on 0845 46 47.
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Question answered by YouthNet in association with Brook
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