Managing Irregular Menstrual Cycles While on Birth Control Pills

Initially, irregular menstruation occurred due to not taking the medication on time?

Hello, doctor.
I didn't see a similar question while browsing, so I'm reaching out for consultation! I had a regular menstrual cycle before starting the oral contraceptive pill, and I have been taking it for almost two months now.
Here’s my situation: First, I got my period around the time I was halfway through the first pack, which lasted about ten days (from March 2 to March 13).
Then, after following the instructions to stop the pill for seven days, I started the second pack on March 20.
However, today, March 31, I got my period again, and I'm unsure how to proceed with the medication! Should I continue taking the pills, finish the pack, and then stop for seven days before starting again? Or should I stop taking the pills now and wait until the fifth day of my period to resume? If I decide to stop and then restart, should I discard the remaining ten pills in this pack and start a new one? Thank you for your guidance, doctor.

Gǒu gǒu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/31

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

During the first pack, I started my period when I was halfway through, which lasted for about ten days (from March 2 to March 13).
After following the instructions to stop the medication for seven days, I began the second pack on March 20.
However, today, March 31, my period has started again.
I'm currently unsure about how to proceed with the medication! Should I continue taking it, finish the pack, and then stop for seven days before starting again, or should I stop the medication now and wait until the fifth day of my period before resuming? If I decide to stop and then restart, should I discard the remaining ten pills of the contraceptive and start a new pack?
Answer: Continue taking the pills, finish the pack, and then stop for seven days before starting again.
Try this for three cycles.
If your periods remain irregular, consider switching brands or using an alternative method.

Reply Date: 2017/03/31

More Info

Managing irregular menstrual cycles while on birth control pills can be a common concern for many women, especially when they are accustomed to regular cycles before starting hormonal contraception. In your case, it seems that you have experienced some irregularities since beginning the birth control pills, which can be frustrating and confusing.

First, it's important to understand that birth control pills work by regulating hormones in your body to prevent ovulation and to stabilize the menstrual cycle. However, it is not uncommon for women to experience irregular bleeding or spotting during the first few months of starting the pill. This is often referred to as "breakthrough bleeding" and can occur as your body adjusts to the new hormone levels.

In your situation, since you have experienced a prolonged menstrual period (lasting ten days) followed by another episode of bleeding shortly after starting your second pack, it is advisable to continue taking the pills as prescribed. Here are some steps you can follow:
1. Continue Taking the Pills: Unless advised otherwise by your healthcare provider, you should continue taking your birth control pills as scheduled. This means you should take the next pill in your pack, even if you are experiencing bleeding.

2. Track Your Bleeding: Keep a record of your bleeding patterns, including the duration and intensity. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider to assess your situation.

3. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: If the irregular bleeding continues or if you have concerns about the frequency or duration of your periods, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider. They may want to evaluate whether the current formulation of the pill is suitable for you or if an alternative method of contraception might be more effective.

4. Do Not Skip Pills: If you decide to stop taking the pills, it is crucial to do so under the guidance of your healthcare provider. Skipping pills or stopping suddenly can lead to further irregularities in your cycle and may increase the risk of unintended pregnancy.

5. Consider New Packs: If you do decide to stop taking the current pack of pills, you should not mix pills from different packs. It is best to finish the current pack and start a new one if you choose to continue with hormonal contraception.

6. Understand the Adjustment Period: Remember that it can take a few months for your body to adjust to the hormones in birth control pills. If you continue to experience irregular bleeding after three months, it may be time to discuss alternative options with your healthcare provider.

In summary, while it can be concerning to experience irregular bleeding while on birth control pills, it is often a normal part of the adjustment process. Continue taking your pills, track your symptoms, and consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can help determine the best course of action based on your specific situation and health history.

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