Expert: Drea Jean H. - 5/30/2006

Question
I stopped taking the pill about 7 weeks ago.  I have not started my period yet, but I have taken a pregnancy test and the result was negative (I took it one week ago).  I was on ortho-lo last and have been on the pill for around five years.  I am currently 20 years old, but I don't know why I haven't started.  I got a period right at the end of the pack and a week after the last day of that one, I got my period again for five days.  It has been a little over five weeks since the last day of my last period.  Is this something that normally happens, or should I be worried that I am pregnant?

Answer
Hi,

This is a VERY normal thing that women go through when they go off the pill. For so long, the pill was regulating your hormones and your cycle. Now, your body has to take back over again, and get regular. This is very common, and often times a little frustrating, but there is nothing to be concerned about. I often recommend though, that if you have not noticed some spotting, or had even a light period in 6 months, to follow up with a Dr., and make sure everythings getting back to normal.

Thanks,

Drea Jean