How does continuous or extended hormonal contraception work?
• Women use continuous or extended hormonal contraceptives (pill, patch or ring) so that they will have fewer bleeding days per year; some women will have no bleeding over time • This method can be used for contraception, medical or personal preference, women can choose continuous or extended use of their combined hormonal contraception method using either the pill, patch or ring • Increased convenience of not bleeding as much or as often, less pain medication, fewer missed work and school due to menstrual problems • May provide improvement of abnormal bleeding, fibroids, endometriosis, peri-menopause side effects and other reproductive health problems and should be discussed in consultation with a physician • Convenience-may be used by women working long hours, athletes, those wanting to delay a period for vacation, graduation, honeymoon, etc.
