Expert: Doctor Early Options - 5/21/2011

Question
I took the first pill on 3/4 and then had the ones that dissolve in your mouth at home on 3/5.  On 3/14 I went for the follow-up appointment and was told everything was fine, and I would start my normal period in a few weeks, and that there was a little stuff left so expect some clotting with that period.  After 2 weeks I stopped bleeding, then nothing for a week.  I then started again, with it lasting again 2 weeks.  At that time I did not think much of it, as I know there was a chance I could have bleeding for up to 8 weeks.  However, since then it has been continuous in this nature.  Bleed for 2 weeks, stop for about a week and half and it start again.  I started again on 4/29.  However, on that morning I had some cramping, went to take a shower and passed something that was pinkish in color and about the size of 2 grapes (both width and length) put together.  It worried me, but I had no clots, or extremely heavy bleeding the rest of the day, so I chalked it up to something left.  I stopped the bleeding on 5/11 and today 5/20 I have started again.  I have called my doctor and have an appointment for Monday, as I called the place I got the pills from first and they stated I should be back to normal now and should have it checked out.  I am starting to get frustrated, moody and worried because of this continuing to happen.  I will be keeping my appointment, but am hoping to get an answer before then.  I am 39, a pack a day smoker (which was told when I did this) and I was 7 weeks when I took the pills.

Answer
You can have irregular bleeding for up to 80 days, especially if there was a little left.  What you passed was the last of what was left.  Taking the pill is a more natural way.  I tell my patients that it is a process.  You should have an Ultrasound to make sure there is no tissue left.  A slight amount can cause prolonged bleeding.