Expert: Norman Solberg - 12/29/2010

Question
Hi,
I have been on birth control pills for about five months now. For the month of December I had breakthrough bleeding for at least seven days on the second week of the white pills. I know that I get my regular period on the placebo pills. Why didn't I get my regular period during that week? I have been consistent in taking my pills on time and have not missed one. Is this normal?

Answer
Sometimes when breakthrough bleeding occurs during the month, the period won't come when expected.  Both are due to the thin uterine lining that the pill causes.  I would do a pregnancy test just to be sure.  As long as it's negative, I'd keep taking your pills daily.  If the same thing happens next month, I would ask your doctor about switching to a different pill.  That usually will get your periods normal again.