Expert: Diane Cheryl - 5/17/2011

Question
Hi. I am a 47-year-old woman who is really nervous. I talked to my gynecologist about taking contraceptives to help regulate my period, as it has been somewhat irregular since last June, when I had part of my ovary removed. She had me checked out, and all was well, so I was able to start the sample pack of pills she gave me as soon as I got my period, which was Friday, May 6. The period all in all was not too bad in terms of flow and cramps, but then it seemed that it was not stopping. My period is usually down to spotting after the fifth day, but this time I was having it more prominently even up to the 7th day. On Friday the 13th, not only was a still having a fair amount of bleeding, but I started to have lower back pain, which I tend to get sometimes as a period is approaching. It seems that I have gone right into another period. The last time I took the pill was this past Friday. I was afraid that if I kept taking it, who knows how long I might be bleeding. When I was in my 20s I had the problem of a constant period, and it was not fun. I am kind of scared that the bleeding might not stop, but I am hoping that since I took the pill for only one week, the effects will be completely out of my system in a few days. If you would please advise, I would be very grateful.

Answer
Dear Teri,

I'm so sorry but I just got your question and I see that it was last week. I hope you are doing well and not bleeding. I am not a doctor but in my opinion, it was good for you to quit taking the pill. Evidently the hormones are interfering with your somewhat natural cycle. Let me know how you are doing. Have you talked to your doctor? Please email me at CHERYL51@aol.com and put ALLEXPERTS in the subject line of your email.

Sincerely,
Diane Cheryl