Despite the numerous methods in which a woman might safely skip her period, it is critical to understand that not having a period is sometimes a clue that something is wrong. Amenorrhea is a condition that occurs when a woman does not get her period because she does not use hormonal birth control. If you do not get your period every month as expected, see your doctor immediately. Women can choose whether or not to have a period. While having a period is typically a sign of fertility, this is not always the case. Some women may choose to avoid menstruation entirely if they do not want to become pregnant. This would also be called "menopause without surgery." Most women will eventually stop being able to prevent pregnancy via menstrual cycles and will need some sort of contraception to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Some women may be able to temporarily disable their reproductive systems using hormones. This could include taking drugs such as anti-depressants or birth control pills. Women who suffer from severe menorrhagia (excessive bleeding during periods) should consult with a physician before trying any new treatments as there are other causes for excessive bleeding that require different approaches. Menstrual cups may be an option for women who wish to reduce the number of pads they use but don't want to rely on hormones or surgery as a solution.