From the FDA Drug Label
The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Continuous birth control can be used safely for extended periods, with no mandatory breaks needed, as supported by the most recent and highest quality study 1. The decision about how long to use continuous birth control should be made individually based on personal preference and medical history. Common continuous birth control methods include combined hormonal contraceptives, which are typically taken for 84 days followed by 7 days of placebo pills or no pills, resulting in only four periods per year. Some women choose to skip the placebo week entirely and take active pills continuously for months or years.
- Progestin-only methods like the hormonal IUD (Mirena, Kyleena, Liletta), implant (Nexplanon), or mini-pill can also be used continuously for their full approved duration—up to 8 years for some IUDs, 5 years for implants, and daily for mini-pills.
- The safety profile for continuous use is excellent, with no evidence suggesting that menstrual breaks are necessary for health reasons, as noted in a review of contraceptive effectiveness and adverse effects 1.
- Benefits of continuous birth control include reduced menstrual symptoms, fewer headaches, and improved management of conditions like endometriosis, as reported in studies on the efficacy of continuous norethisterone acetate and cyclical combined oral contraceptive pill 2. Some women may experience breakthrough bleeding initially, which typically improves over time.
- It is essential to consider the individual's tolerance for risk of pregnancy, menstrual bleeding changes, other risks, and personal values and preferences when selecting a contraceptive method, as emphasized in a review of contraception selection, effectiveness, and adverse effects 1.