What are sugar pills in birth control?
Sugar pills, also known as placebo pills or inactive pills, are the pills in a birth control pack that do not contain any hormones. They are included in the pack to help women stay in the habit of taking a pill at the same time every day, even during their period week when they are not taking hormones.
What happens if you skip the sugar pills?
If you skip the sugar pills in your birth control pack and start a new pack right away, you are essentially skipping your period for that month. This is safe and common to do, but it is important to talk to your healthcare provider first to make sure it is the right choice for you.
Can you skip the sugar pills every month?
Some types of birth control are designed to be taken continuously, without any breaks for a period week. This type of birth control is often recommended for women who experience painful or heavy periods. However, whether or not it is safe to skip the sugar pills every month depends on the specific type of birth control you are taking and your personal health history. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider to determine what is right for you.
What are the benefits of skipping the sugar pills?
Skipping the sugar pills and continuously taking active pills can provide a number of benefits. It can help to reduce menstrual cramps and headaches, shorten the duration of your period, and provide more consistent hormone levels to help with hormonal acne or mood swings. Additionally, skipping the sugar pills means fewer periods per year, which some women find more convenient or appealing.
What are the potential risks of skipping the sugar pills?
While skipping the sugar pills is generally safe and effective for many women, there are some potential risks to be aware of. Skipping periods too often can cause irregular bleeding or spotting, and it may increase your risk of breakthrough bleeding. Additionally, some types of birth control may increase your risk of blood clots or other health complications if taken continuously without breaks. It is important to discuss your individual risks and benefits with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your birth control regimen.
