Can I take my break from the combined pill early?

[el_22]

Hello, if I were to take my pill free week a week early (meaning I have only had 14 pills this cycle) would I still be protected?

[Hidden]

Dear el_22,

The question you ask is similar to what bluebunny asked (see their post).

This depends on when you last had sex, as sperm can survive for up to seven days. If you last had sex > 7 days ago, then it should be safe to stop a week early.

Because you're not following the 'normal' schedule for the combined pill, you must make sure you use an alternative method of contraception (condom) during your pill-free break (however long you decide) until you re-start the pill and then continue using condoms for the first 7 days of the new pack.

Adhari