vaginapagina | Periods After Stopping HBC/Delaying Periods

I have been on HBC (ortho-tricyclen lo and its generics) for 8 years now, continuously. Before I was on HBC, I had periods that lasted 8-9 days and were pretty heavy, as well as painful ovulation before and cramping before/during my period. On HBC, my periods were 4-5 days, light, and pain-free. I recently moved to a different city 4 hours from home, and as luck would have it, it happened to coincide with my annual PAP/BC prescription renewal. I already used my "free pass" on the annual exam to get my BC for another month, and neglected to see a doctor where I am now, and my gyno back home won't approve any more refills unless I come to see her (which I know is totally my fault, a failure to plan on my part doesn't constitute an emergency on hers).

I have been w/out my BC for 3 weeks now, and my period is due this Thursday/Friday. I'm wondering, how likely is it that my period will go right back to the way it was before, with the heavy bleeding and cramping? Is it likely to go right back to that, or will it slowly go back to that if I stay off it for a few months? Just trying to get an idea of what to expect, and I realize that there's no way to know for sure, just hoping someone may have similar experience they can share!

Also, somewhat related, I'd like to delay this period or shorten it if at all possible. I haven't been able to get a doctor's appointment to get my BC until after my period is due, so I won't be able to get anything from the doctor. Again, I know this isn't an exact science at all, just looking for any suggestions that may help.

Thanks!