Expert: Diane Cheryl - 7/19/2008

Question
I am eighteen years old and have been on Yaz for a little less than a year. I wanted to know if I need to use a back-up method when I am taking the placebos (and if I need to even take them?) in the time when I am not taking the active pills and I do not have my period.  Thanks!!

Answer
Hi Diana,

I found your question from 7/28 in the question pool on allexperts.com
I'm not sure who you were addressing the question to but I will try to answer. I don't think you have to use a backup method during the placebos. And yes, I would recommend that you take them if you're going to stay on the pill. They are to keep you used to taking a pill every day and if you don't keep that routine going, it will be hard to remember. In my opinion, I think birth control pills or any kind of hormonal birth control are not healthy for a woman's body. There are side effects and risks to using hormonal birth control methods.  Also, about back up methods, there is never a 100% guarantee that you will prevent pregnancy by any kind of birth control method, except abstinence.
Please email me at DCHERYL51@yahoo.com and I would like to talk more about birth control and stuff.

Sincerely,
Diane Cheryl