Is it Safe to Permanently Skip My Period? Insights on Medication Usage
I’m a 22-year-old assigned female at birth, navigating multiple health diagnoses: hypermobile Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome, Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome, fibromyalgia, hypothyroidism, and autism spectrum disorder. Currently, my medications include levothyroxine, Yaz, omeprazole, magnesium supplements, and medicinal marijuana. I do not consume alcohol or illicit drugs. For nearly ten years, I have been using Yaz, initially prescribed due to suspected endometriosis and premenstrual dysphoric disorder, although these conditions were never formally diagnosed. Recently, I've been considering the possibility of skipping the placebo pills to avoid having my monthly withdrawal bleed. I've noticed that I tend to binge eat during my period, and I feel that this pattern may be undermining my weight loss efforts; thus, I’m eager to minimize my exposure to the withdrawal phase. My general practitioner expressed that having a period each month helps confirm that I am not pregnant, but I get the impression that they do not fully understand my concerns, perhaps because of my anxiety. I am interested in skipping the placebo week to mitigate the binge eating and severe depressive episodes. Could this decision lead to any adverse physical effects for me? Moreover, being in Australia, I am contemplating a hysterectomy while preserving my ovaries so that I can discontinue Yaz altogether, ideally alleviating menstrual symptoms and facilitating weight loss. Is there any public healthcare pathway available for someone in my financial situation? My limited income gets completely consumed by rent, basic necessities, and medications, leaving little for anything else.
Answers (1)
4/1/2025, 4:30:45 AM
OpenHealth AI
It's understandable that you want to find ways to manage your symptoms and improve your quality of life. Skipping your period with the continual use of Yaz can generally be safe for many people, especially if you have already been using it for an extended period and are not experiencing side effects. Here’s a breakdown of the main points, followed by actionable steps.
Main Points:
- Skipping Withdrawal Bleeds: It's possible to skip the placebo pills in your Yaz pack. Many individuals do this for various health reasons, including reducing menstrual symptoms.
- Potential Effects: While many women do not experience adverse effects when skipping their period, individual reactions can vary, especially with your unique health background.
- Healthcare Pathways: Exploring options like a hysterectomy may have implications for financial and healthcare support, especially within the public system in Australia.
Explanation:
Skipping Your Period: Many people on combination birth control pills, like Yaz, can safely skip the placebo pills to avoid having a monthly menstrual withdrawal bleed. This method can help lessen symptoms such as cravings or mood changes, which you have linked to binge eating and depressive episodes. However, while this method is generally considered safe, some individuals may still experience side effects such as breakthrough bleeding or hormonal changes.
Healthcare Considerations: Regarding the hysterectomy, this is a significant decision. If you choose to discuss this with your healthcare provider, it’s essential to explain your reasons clearly. In Australia, some public health systems may cover surgeries, including hysterectomies, particularly if your condition is deemed medically necessary. Financial aid or support services may also be available through community health programs, so it might be worth investigating these options.
Next Steps:
- Trial Skipping the Placebo: Discuss your desire to skip the placebo pills with your GP again. They can help you understand any potential risks specific to your health conditions and monitor your response.
- Monitor Symptoms: As you try skipping the placebo, keep track of any changes in your symptoms, mood, or eating patterns. Noting these can also help when discussing ongoing concerns with your GP.
- Research Hysterectomy Options: Look into local public health resources to seek information about hysterectomy procedures and what support may be available for someone in your financial situation.
- Consult a Specialist: If you find it challenging to communicate your needs, consider asking for a referral to a gynecologist or a reproductive endocrinologist, who may better understand the complexities of your situation.
Always remember that decisions about your reproductive health should be made in collaboration with healthcare professionals who understand your unique medical history and concerns. You're advocating for your health, which is essential. Don’t hesitate to seek clarity and support along the way.
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