Expert: Norman Solberg - 12/6/2009

Question
I've been on Marvelon 21 for more than a year now and would like to know if I can end my withdrawal bleed earlier by starting a new pack before the 7 days are up.  Also, what are my chances of spotting if I skip 3 bleeds in a row?

Answer
Yes, you can usually end your withdrawal bleed earlier by starting the new pack early.  Your chances of spotting if you skip 3 bleeds in a row are probably fair.  It varies from woman to woman.  If you try to skip 3 bleeds and do get spotting, you can usually resolve it by stopping the pill for 3-4 days and then restarting.  That sort of lets the period come that's trying to come.  Some women will have no spotting over 3 months, especially after being on the pill for a while, as you have.