Published on: 8/20/2025
Why are there placebo pills in birth control?
Placebo pills in birth control are there to help maintain a routine and mimic a natural menstrual cycle, even though they don't contain active hormones.
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Explanation
Placebo pills in birth control packs are included to help women keep a consistent daily routine of taking a pill, which can aid in remembering to take the active pills. According to the provided references, the placebo pills do not contain hormones and are typically taken during the last week of the cycle. This allows for a withdrawal bleed, which mimics a natural menstrual period but is not necessary for the effectiveness of the birth control.
- Routine Maintenance: Taking a pill daily, even if it's a placebo, helps maintain the habit, reducing the risk of missing active pills.
- Mimicking Natural Cycle: The withdrawal bleed during the placebo week can provide reassurance of not being pregnant, even though it's not a real period.
- Alternative Schedules: Some studies suggest eliminating the placebo week can reduce certain side effects, but this is not the standard practice for all users.
Overall, the placebo pills serve more of a psychological and routine purpose rather than a medical necessity.
(References)
- Nelson AL. (2007). Extended-cycle oral contraceptive pills with 10 microg .... Women's health (London, England), 19804029.
- Sulak P, Willis S, Kuehl T, Coffee A, & Clark J. (2007). impact of eliminating the standard 7-day placebo interval. Headache, 17355491.
- De Leo V, Scolaro V, Musacchio MC, Di Sabatino A, Morgante G, & Cianci A. (2011). Combined oral contraceptives in women with menstrual .... Fertility and sterility, 21843889.
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