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Key Information:

  • Holidays and Events: If you have a holiday or special event coming up, you might wonder if you can delay your period. The good news is that, in most cases, you can do this safely.
  • The Right Pill: This advice applies to the most common type of combined pill, called a monophasic 21-day pill. This is where all the pills in the pack are the same colour and strength.

How to Do It: Running Packs Together

The method is very simple and involves changing your routine slightly.

  • The Normal Routine: Usually, you take one pill a day for three weeks (21 days) and then have a seven-day break.
  • The Delay Method: Instead of taking your usual seven-day break after you finish your current pack, simply start the next pack of pills straight away.
  • The Result: This is known as “running packs together.” It will stop your normal withdrawal bleed (period) from happening during that time.

Important Things to Know

  • Is it safe?: Yes, running packs together is a safe thing to do.
  • Am I protected?: Yes, you will still be protected against pregnancy, provided you have taken the pills correctly without missing any.
  • What about side effects?: Some people may experience “breakthrough bleeding” or spotting (light bleeding) during this time. This is normal and nothing to worry about.

Uncertainty

If you are not sure what type of pill you are taking (eg if you have pills of different colours in one pack), or if you plan to do this regularly, please discuss with us, or your local pharmacist.

Discuss Your Contraception
 

Further Information

For more information about delaying your period, please visit the NHS website.

Learn more about delaying your period

Last reviewed: 27 December 2025
Next review due: 27 December 2028