Should I take a 7-day break at the end of my pill pack? Can I take a break of less than 7 days? Or should I start a new pack right away?

It is generally recommended to take a 7-day break at the end of each pill pack before starting a new pack. This break allows for a withdrawal bleed similar to a menstrual period. However, if you want to ensure the highest level of contraceptive effectiveness, you can choose to skip the break and start a new pack immediately after finishing the current one. This will ensure that you have a minimum of 21 days of active pills in a row. Ultimately, the decision on whether or not to take a break is a personal one and should be made in consultation with a healthcare provider.