Expert: Diane Cheryl - 11/29/2009

Question
Hello,
I have been on b/c pills (necon) for about 3 years. They were originally for the purpose of regulating my period; I've only been sexually active in the last couple months.
My question is, it seems to me like the effectiveness of the pill would go down a bit during the week of the placebos, especially if sometimes I don't start my period within the next couple days after stopping the hormones. Also, I don't know if this would make a difference, but I go through 3 rounds of pill packets before having a period. The brand of pill I'm taking was not specifically designed for a period every three months, but my doctor said I could still take it that way when she first prescribed it.
So basically I'm just wondering whether or not the effectiveness of the birth control is decreased due to the seven days, every three rounds, that I don't take the hormones and have a period. Thanks for your help!  

Answer
According to the pill manufacturers, this should not affect the effectiveness of the pill. However, in my opinion, there is always a chance of pregnancy anytime during the cycle. I don't believe that the pill is 100% safe in preventing pregnancies. Also, I don't recommend the pill because of hormonal reasons. I have done research in this area for years and most studies show that there are many side effects and risks from birth control pills and any kind of hormonal birth control method.

Also, in my opinion, I don't think it's natural or healthy to take the pill for 3 cycles and not have a period. We, as women, were made a certain way and our bodies need to have a regular, natural cycle. Let me know your thoughts on my opinions. My email address is CHERYL51@aol.com and you can email me there privately.

Sincerely,
Diane Cheryl