Skipping a period using combined pill

[HelloMist]

Hi, I haven't used the pill for a number of years. I've got a few packets left and want to try and skip my period due in August. Not sure which to do:

1. take it starting on day 1 of my next period later this month, then a gap then 2 packets back to back

1. is taking it from now, mid cycle, better? Wasn't sure if it might take a few months to get used to side effects and less chance of breakthrough bleeding.

The other thing is that 2 of the 3 packs I have expire the end of this month! I'm not relying on it as a contraceptive though, just hoping it's probably still effective enough for the reason I want.

Thanks for any advice.

Rather than taking the pill if you don't actually need it you could ask your doctor to prescribe Norithisterone.

I got this like 15-20 years ago when I was going on holiday and about to start period. You start taking them about 2/3 days before you're due and your period comes 2/3 days after you take last pill.

Hi @ApplePie86, I read some old threads about Norithisterone and got put off by side effects (mood swings is what I remember). Did you find it OK? I've been on the pill before so it's more of a known quantity. (I was on it at the start of IVF several times - sounds odd I know - as well as the usual reasons). Thanks for replying, perhaps I need to look into Nor. further.

@HelloMist to be honest I can't remember any side effects although I was only about 20 at the time. I think it may have dragged the cramping out an extra few days but can't recall anything that would have stopped me taking it again.

If you are fine with the pill, it seems like the best solution. I've done that as well and took something like 6 packets back to back. I'd start on day your period ends if I were you.

1st option

Thank you both of you.