Expert: Bob Kambic - 7/11/2007

Question
Hi,
I am a 25 years old, no known health conditions, and not smoking.
I am in a meaningfull relationship for 3 yrs, and two weeks ago I decided I will start using BC.
My doctor gave me Ortho tri cyclen lo, and I started taking it on the 1jul, which was a sunday, and also first day of my period.
To tell you the truth I didn't like the idea of taking the pill every day, and after 5 pills I stoped taking it.
So yesterday which was the 10jul I got my period again.
In the begining it was very light flow, but now it really seems to me like it is a menstrual flow.
Can you explain to me how long does it take to get the pill out of my system, and what effects could it have done to my body.
Thank you so much for your help.
Tasha

Answer
The pill hormones leave your body quickly. But your body is confused from them. The pill hormones disturb your cervical mucus, may interfere with ovulation, and can prevent implantation. You took hormones for five days and stopped. The pill you took contains some progesterone. The drop in progesterone during the regular cycle is what brings on menstrual bleeding. When you stopped taking the pill, you stopped progesterone and your body thought it was time for your period.

Since you only took it for five days I doubt you will see any long term effects.

You may want to check out natural family planning.

http://www.irh.org/nfp.htm

http://www.fertilityfriend.com/HelpCenter/FFBook/ff_fertility_signs.html

Be sure to try to get a teacher to work with you until you really understand your fertility.