Expert: Mia - 12/19/2008

Question
i started taking birth control this summer but stopped shortly after.  I just
returned to taking the pill and wanted to skip my period so i went from one
pack to the next without taking the last 7 pills of the first pack. i have break
threw bleeding and i don't know if the pill is actually working. do you have any
answers for me?

Answer
Hi Morgan,

Breakthrough bleeding is a common side effect of the pill, especially during the first few months on the pill. Since you just started the pill after stopping for a few months, your body is readjusting to being back on the pill after being off.  It can also a side effect of skipping the placebo pills. While there is nothing wrong with skipping your period, it can sometimes result in breakthrough bleeding. however, as long as you have taken the pills on time and did not miss any, the pills are working and you are still protected.

I hope this helps. If you have further questions let me know.

-Mia