From the Guidelines
Tapering off Sprinter birth control is not typically recommended or necessary, and you can simply stop taking it at any time, though it's best to finish your current pack to maintain regular menstrual cycles. Unlike some medications, hormonal birth control does not require gradual discontinuation. After stopping, fertility can return immediately, so use alternative contraception if you don't want to become pregnant. Some women may experience temporary side effects after discontinuation, including irregular periods, acne flares, or mood changes as the body adjusts to natural hormone levels. These symptoms usually resolve within a few months. If you're stopping due to side effects or planning pregnancy, consult your healthcare provider first. They might recommend specific timing for discontinuation based on your individual health needs and reproductive goals 1.
The most recent guidelines from the U.S. Selected Practice Recommendations for Contraceptive Use, 2024, do not provide specific recommendations for tapering off combination hormonal contraceptives like Sprinter, suggesting that discontinuation can be done at any time without the need for gradual tapering 1.
Key points to consider when stopping Sprinter birth control include:
- Fertility can return immediately after stopping, so alternative contraception should be used if pregnancy is not desired
- Temporary side effects, such as irregular periods, acne, or mood changes, may occur after discontinuation, but usually resolve within a few months
- Consult a healthcare provider before stopping due to side effects or planning pregnancy, as they may recommend specific timing for discontinuation based on individual health needs and reproductive goals
- There is no need to taper off Sprinter birth control, and it can be stopped at any time, though finishing the current pack can help maintain regular menstrual cycles 1.
It's essential to prioritize individual health needs and reproductive goals when deciding to stop Sprinter birth control, and consulting a healthcare provider can help determine the best course of action 1.
From the Research
Reasons for Tapering Sprinter Birth Control
- The decision to taper or stop using Sprinter birth control, which contains drospirenone, may be due to various reasons, including:
- Increased risk of venous thrombosis, as estrogen-containing methods like combined oral contraceptive pills can increase this risk 2
- Changes in menstrual bleeding, which can be a concern for some women 2
- Potential impact on oxidative stress, as oral contraceptives with estrogens and progestins may affect oxidative stress status 3
- Association with sexual dysfunction, as some progestin-based contraceptives, including those containing drospirenone, have been linked to an increased risk of sexual dysfunction 4
- Effects on whole blood clot viscoelasticity and erythrocyte characteristics, which may contribute to a prothrombotic state 5
- It is essential to discuss the patient's tolerance for risk of pregnancy, menstrual bleeding changes, and other risks, as well as personal values and preferences, when selecting a contraceptive method 2
- The unique pharmacologic activities of drospirenone, including its antiandrogenic and antimineralocorticoid properties, may make it a suitable option for some women, such as those with acne 6
- However, the potential risks and benefits of using Sprinter birth control should be carefully considered for each individual, taking into account their medical history, lifestyle, and personal preferences 2, 3, 4, 5