Hormonal birth control methods that use hormones can be used to stop or reduce periods. Here are some of the methods that can be used:

• Combination birth control pills (COCs): These are the most widely used method for pausing your cycle. They have two hormones and typically come in a pack of 28 pills -- 21 days of hormone-containing pills and some placebo, or inactive, pills. To stop your period, you take the hormone-containing pills for 21 days. Then you throw away the placebo pills and start a new pack, again taking just the hormone-containing pills. Repeat this until youre ready to have your period.

• Progestin-only pills: These pills contain only progestin, which is a synthetic version of progesterone. They can be used to reduce the frequency of periods or stop them altogether. If you start taking the pills within the first 5 days after the start of your menstrual period, no additional birth control method is needed. If you start taking the pills more than 5 days after the start of your period, use an additional birth control method or avoid sexual intercourse (vaginal sex) for the next 2 days.

• Certain intrauterine devices (IUDs): Adding the hormone progestin to an IUD helps treat heavy menstrual bleeding. About half of people who use a hormone-containing IUD stop having periods 6 months after it’s put in. For another 25%, periods happen less often but don’t stop. The hormone-containing IUD can stay in place and work for 3 to 8 years, depending on the brand.

• Vaginal rings: These are flexible rings that are inserted into the vagina and release hormones. They can be used to reduce the frequency of periods or stop them altogether.

• Patches: These are patches that are placed on the skin and release hormones. They can be used to reduce the frequency of periods or stop them altogether.

• Shots: These are injections that are given every 3 months and release hormones. They can be used to reduce the frequency of periods or stop them altogether.

• Implants: These are small, flexible rods that are inserted under the skin and release hormones. They can be used to reduce the frequency of periods or stop them altogether.

Its important to note that no method eliminates periods completely, and all carry the potential for breakthrough bleeding, which is unpredictable bleeding between periods. If you want to stop your period long-term, birth control pills, patches, or the vaginal ring are recommended. Its also important to talk to your doctor about the best method for you, as the choice depends on your goals and preferences, as well as your overall health.