Is it important for me to have 21 days of contraceptive pills? Should the 7-day break remain the same?

Yes, it is important to take the contraceptive pill for 21 days in order to maintain its effectiveness. The 7-day break between packs can be shortened to as little as 0 days, if preferred. It is not necessary to have a period during the break from active pills, as this is simply withdrawal bleeding and not a true menstrual period. Some contraceptives are designed to eliminate bleeding altogether. Fertility is not affected by taking contraceptives, and it is possible to become pregnant after stopping them, although it may take some time for your cycle to regulate.