Expert: Norman Solberg - 3/31/2009

Question
I just switched birth control from ortho tricyclen lo to nortrel 1/35 and started February 1st and i have not had my period since February 3rd. Is that normal?

Answer
It's not too unusual to miss periods when taking the pill, especially with certain pills.  Periods usually get lighter on the pill, and sometimes they get so light they don't come.  Since it sounds like you've missed 2 periods, I'd do a pregnancy test just to be sure you're not pregnant.  As long as you're not, it's not harmful to not have a period on the pill, and some women prefer it.  If you'd rather have a period each month, talk to your doctor about switching to a different pill.