Expert: Mia - 12/15/2008

Question
I'm 32, 6 children. Used pill for the first time now for 6 wks straight not to get my period, under ob's guidance. Four days after stopping the pill I got my period. Usually it would last for about 4-5 days. Now after 5 days everything seemed normal. But a day later I bled again in the morning. Then during the day I was fine, and the next day again blood. Is this a normal side affect? Should I be concerned? I am not continuing the pill anymore, I did it only this once for a specific reason. Will this pill taking affect anything else?

Answer
Hi Rachel,

Breakthrough bleeding is a common side effect when starting and stopping the pill. The pill changed your hormone levels while you were on it and your body is now adjusting back to pre-pill levels. It is not a cause for concern and should go away shortly. If the bleeding becomes very heavy, or continues for a long time give your doctor a call. It is possible that you may experience other side effects such nausea, headaches, and breast tenderness, but these will go away too, most likely by your next period.

I hope this helps. If you have further questions let me know.

-Mia