Expert: Drea Jean H. - 5/11/2006

Question
Hello, I am taking a low hormone birth control pill (20 mcg) and i just finished the first pack. I didn't spot for the first 10 days of active pills, but began spotting around the 11th. I did get a period during the "non-active" pills. I have read so much information about breakthrough bleeding that i dont know what to beleive. Ive read that if you have breakthrough bleeding, you should use a back-up method of birth control because the pill is not as effective, that i should switch to a higher dose pill, and ive also read that i have nothing to worry about. As the expert, what do you think? Thank you for your time.

Answer
Hi Tessa,

Spotting and break through bleeding are diffrent things. Break through bleeding often mimics a real period. It will be as heavy and last about as long as a period. Spotting will only occur for a day, maybe two, and be pretty light.

Your only on your first month, and it is very very common to have things like spotting and breakthrough bleeding the first 3 months. You don't need a higher dose just yet. Wait the full three months, and if in the fourth or fifth month you are still having problems, double check with your Dr., because then he may switch brands.

You shouldn't need a back up when you have spotting. If you have breakthrough bleeding, its not a bad idea to use a back up method just to be safe.

Hope that answers your question. If not,you can get back to me.

Thanks,

Drea Jean

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