Oral Contraceptives: Effects on Menstrual Cycle and Usage

Oral contraceptives

I usually have sexual intercourse, and for the first time, my doctor prescribed me 21 tablets of Priliane (a type of oral contraceptive).
My menstrual period typically lasts for 7 days.
I would like to know if taking oral contraceptives will increase the duration of my menstrual period? Can I save this month's pills to start taking them next month? If I experience slight bleeding after finishing the pills, is it okay to take a hot spring bath? Can I engage in sexual intercourse? Thank you, doctor.

Aru, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/06/19

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

What you need is not medical advice but a make-up course in sexual knowledge.
For such questions, it is recommended to refer to the National Health Administration's "Sexual Happiness e-Learning" or the Obstetrics and Gynecology Society's "Consultation for Adolescent Contraceptive Guidelines" at http://goo.gl/dc6PfW.

Hello, your inquiry is answered as follows: It is recommended to start taking birth control pills on the first day of your menstrual cycle.
If you begin taking the pill after the second day of your period, it is advised to use additional contraceptive measures for the first seven days of pill use.
When taken correctly, the effectiveness of Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs) can be as high as 99%.
In addition to effectively preventing pregnancy, oral contraceptives can help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce menstrual flow, and shorten the duration of menstrual bleeding, all of which are beneficial for women's health.

If you experience menstruation or bleeding while on the pill, there is no need to stop taking it; continue to take it as scheduled.
Once your body adjusts to the contraceptive, any irregular bleeding should cease.
However, if irregular bleeding persists for more than three months or if you experience heavy bleeding, you should consult a physician for advice.
Other activities are not restricted.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2017/06/19

More Info

Understanding oral contraceptives, particularly their effects on the menstrual cycle and proper usage, is crucial for anyone considering or currently using them. Oral contraceptives, such as the one you mentioned (祈麗安, or "Qilian"), are commonly prescribed to regulate menstrual cycles, prevent pregnancy, and manage various hormonal imbalances.

When you start taking oral contraceptives, they can influence your menstrual cycle in several ways. Typically, these pills contain hormones that help to regulate ovulation and the menstrual cycle. For many women, the introduction of these hormones can lead to changes in the duration and flow of their periods. Some may experience shorter periods, while others might notice a slight increase in the duration of menstrual bleeding, especially during the first few months of use as the body adjusts to the hormones. However, it is not common for oral contraceptives to significantly extend the length of menstruation beyond what is typical for you.

Regarding your question about whether you can save this month's pills for next month, it is generally not recommended to skip a cycle of pills unless directed by your healthcare provider. Oral contraceptives are designed to be taken in a specific sequence to maintain hormone levels in your body. If you do not take the pills as prescribed, it could lead to irregular bleeding or unintended pregnancy. If you have concerns about your cycle or the timing of your pills, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

As for the issue of experiencing light bleeding after finishing the pills, this is often referred to as withdrawal bleeding, which is a normal response to the sudden drop in hormone levels after stopping the pills. If the bleeding is light and not accompanied by severe pain, it is generally safe to engage in activities like soaking in a hot spring. However, if you have any concerns about the nature of the bleeding or if it persists, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider.

Regarding sexual activity during this time, it is also generally safe to have sex after completing your course of oral contraceptives, provided you have been taking them correctly and consistently. However, if you are concerned about the risk of pregnancy, it is essential to use additional protection, such as condoms, especially if you have not started your next pack of pills.

In summary, oral contraceptives can affect your menstrual cycle in various ways, and it is essential to take them as prescribed for the best results. If you have any specific concerns or experience unusual symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance tailored to your situation.

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