What is placebo week?

There’s three weeks worth of active pills that contain the hormone or hormones necessary to prevent pregnancy. The last week’s set of pills typically consists of placebos. Placebo pills are placeholders meant to help you stay on track by taking one pill every day until the next month starts.

On what day of placebo pills does period come?

Your body’s response to your pill will depend on the type of pill you take, and your own body’s hormones. If you’re taking a typical 21/7 monophasic pill (where all active pills have the same amount of hormones—check your pack), bleeding may start on day two or three of your placebo week and last 3-5 days on average.

Can I take my placebo pills a week early?

You can start your active pills early to adjust the date of your period or start your placebo pills on a different week if you want to change the timing of your period. Speak to your local health care provider about the best way to do this, as your level of protection will vary with the type of pill you’re using.

Why do I have my period at the wrong time on birth control?

Irregular bleeding is the most common side effect of progestin-only pills (POPs). Fortunately, this side effect usually decreases or stops altogether with time (usually within about 3-6 months). Over time, POPs may reduce menstrual bleeding or stop your period altogether.

Why is my period late on placebo pills?

The estrogen maintains the uterine lining. While on the active estrogen containing pills, the uterine lining stays thin but should not bleed. The placebo pills, do not contain estrogen. Your period starts a few days into the placebo pills because of your body’s response to the lack of estrogen.

Is it a real period on the pill?

The period you get while on the pill isn’t a ‘true’ period. Sure, you bleed during the week that you take the sugar pills. But technically that’s “monthly withdrawal bleeding.” It’s slightly different than a regular period. Normally, you ovulate in the middle of your menstrual cycle.