Should You Continue Birth Control Pills After Unusual Bleeding?

Taking pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with other medications?

I started taking the oral contraceptive pill (Yaz) this year, and I began my seventh pack on November 30.
My last menstrual period ended on November 30.
On December 5, I visited a doctor due to the appearance of pityriasis rosea and took medication, making sure to avoid overlapping the timing with the oral contraceptive pill.
However, on December 9, I experienced light bleeding (bright red but minimal).
My next expected period should be on December 24.
Should I stop taking the oral contraceptive pill, or should I continue to finish this pack?

Pingguo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/10

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

It is recommended to first take a pregnancy test.
If the result is negative and there is no abdominal pain or discomfort, it may just be a mild menstrual irregularity.
In that case, it is advised to continue taking the medication while monitoring the bleeding situation.
If the bleeding decreases and eventually stops, there is no concern.
Conversely, if the bleeding increases, it is recommended to stop the medication and wait for the bleeding to stop before resuming the medication.
In the event of heavy bleeding, continuous bleeding, a positive pregnancy test, or abdominal pain or discomfort, it is advised to seek medical attention for examination.
Sincerely, Dr.
Lu Li-Cheng, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2016/12/10

More Info

When it comes to the use of birth control pills, particularly in the context of experiencing unusual bleeding, it is essential to approach the situation with a clear understanding of how these medications work and the potential implications of any side effects.
Birth control pills, such as the one you mentioned (悦己), are designed to regulate hormonal levels in the body to prevent ovulation and manage menstrual cycles. However, it is not uncommon for women to experience breakthrough bleeding, especially during the initial months of starting a new contraceptive regimen. This can occur due to hormonal fluctuations as your body adjusts to the medication.

In your case, since you have been on the pill since November 30 and experienced a light bleeding episode on December 9, it is important to consider a few factors before making a decision about whether to continue or stop taking the pills:
1. Timing of Bleeding: The bleeding you experienced on December 9 is occurring earlier than your expected period (which you anticipated on December 24). This could be a sign of breakthrough bleeding, which is generally not a cause for alarm, especially if the bleeding is light and not accompanied by severe pain or other concerning symptoms.

2. Medication Interaction: You mentioned that you were treated for a skin condition (玫瑰糠疹) and took other medications. It is crucial to ensure that these medications do not interact negatively with your birth control pills. If you have any concerns about potential interactions, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider.

3. Continuing the Pill: Unless you are experiencing heavy bleeding, severe pain, or other alarming symptoms, it is generally recommended to continue taking your birth control pills as prescribed. Stopping the pills abruptly can lead to hormonal imbalances and may result in irregular cycles or unintended pregnancy.

4. Consulting a Healthcare Provider: If the unusual bleeding persists, becomes heavier, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider. They can evaluate your situation more thoroughly, possibly perform tests, and determine if any adjustments to your contraceptive method are necessary.

5. Monitoring Your Cycle: Keep track of your bleeding patterns and any other side effects you may experience while on the pill. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in assessing your response to the medication.

In summary, unless there are significant concerns, it is typically advisable to continue taking your birth control pills while monitoring your symptoms. If you have any doubts or if the bleeding continues or worsens, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and guidance. They can help ensure that you are using the most appropriate method for your needs and address any underlying issues that may be contributing to the unusual bleeding.

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