Is it normal not to get a period during my pill-free week?

“I’m on birth control and didn’t get my period during the pill-free week. I’ve been taking the pills every day without missing any. Should I be worried, or is it normal to sometimes have no period on the pill-free week?”

Dr. Janyele Sales
Family Doctor CRM 177392-SP

While uncommon, it's possible to not have a period during the pill-free week. If you’ve been taking your birth control pills correctly without missing any doses, the absence of bleeding is likely caused by the hormones in the pill and may be considered normal. You should continue taking your pills as scheduled and start the next pack on the expected date, even if you didn’t bleed.

Your period may come during the next pill-free week. However, if you’ve missed birth control pills, taken them at irregular times, vomited, used other medications, or recently switched to a different brand or formulation, not getting your period could be a sign of pregnancy. In this case, it’s important to take a pregnancy test if you’ve had unprotected sex.

When switching from one type of birth control to another, changes in hormone dosage or formulation may cause your period to be late or absent during the first month of use. During this time, it’s recommended to use an additional barrier method, such as condoms, during the first week of the new pack.

If you’re unsure about how to continue your birth control or when to take a pregnancy test, consult a gynecologist or primary care provider for proper guidance and evaluation.

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