Birth Control Pills: Switching from YAZ to Loette and Menstrual Delays

Contraceptive pill issues

I have been taking Yejih (21-day pill) for over a year, and my menstrual cycle has been consistently 28 days.
Later, the pharmacy suggested switching to Loestrin (28-day pill) which contains iron supplements.
I started taking Loestrin on the second day of my period, and I have now completed the 28-day course (today is the 29th day of my cycle), but my period has not arrived yet, and it is already two days late.
Could this be because Loestrin is not suitable for me? Recently, I have also been taking medication prescribed by my gynecologist for vaginal inflammation.
Could the combination of the medication for vaginal inflammation and the birth control pill be affecting my menstrual cycle? Which is better, Yejih or Loestrin? If I want to switch back to Yejih, should I wait until my period arrives to start taking it again, or can I switch directly?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/03/14

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

I have been taking Yejih (21-day regimen) for over a year, and my menstrual cycle has been consistently 28 days.
Later, the pharmacy suggested switching to Lo-Yi-Hsin (28-day regimen) which contains iron supplements.
I started taking Lo-Yi-Hsin on the second day of my period, and now I have completed the 28-day course (today is the 29th day of my cycle), but my period has not arrived yet; it is already two days late.
Could it be that Lo-Yi-Hsin is not suitable for me?
Answer: Perhaps Lo-Yi-Hsin is not suitable for me.
I also have a recent vaginal inflammation and have been taking medication prescribed by my gynecologist.
Could the combination of the medication for vaginal inflammation and the birth control pills be affecting my menstrual cycle?
Answer: It should not be the case.
Which is better, Yejih or Lo-Yi-Hsin?
Answer: Both are good; it varies from person to person.
If I want to switch back to Yejih, should I wait until my period arrives to start taking it again, or can I continue taking it directly?
Answer: If you want to switch back to Yejih, you can continue taking it directly.

Reply Date: 2018/03/14

More Info

When switching from one birth control pill to another, such as from YAZ to Loette, it is not uncommon to experience changes in your menstrual cycle. In your case, you have been taking YAZ for over a year with a regular cycle of 28 days, and now you have switched to Loette, starting on the second day of your period. You mentioned that your period is now two days late after completing the 28-day course of Loette.
Firstly, it is important to understand that hormonal contraceptives like YAZ and Loette work by regulating your hormones to prevent ovulation and manage your menstrual cycle. When you switch from one type of pill to another, your body may take some time to adjust to the new hormonal formulation. This adjustment period can lead to irregularities in your menstrual cycle, including delays in your period.
Regarding your concern about whether Loette is suitable for you, it is essential to consider that each individual may respond differently to various formulations of birth control pills. If you are experiencing side effects or if your menstrual cycle becomes significantly irregular, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider. They can help determine if the current pill is appropriate for you or if you should consider switching back to YAZ or trying another option.

You also mentioned that you are taking medication for vaginal inflammation. It is possible that the combination of the medication for inflammation and the hormonal birth control could affect your menstrual cycle. Some medications can interact with hormonal contraceptives, potentially altering their effectiveness or your body's response to them. However, without specific details about the medication you are taking for the inflammation, it is difficult to assess the exact impact. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking to ensure they can provide the best advice.

As for your question about whether to switch back to YAZ, it is generally recommended to wait until your next period before making such a change. This allows your body to reset and can help avoid further irregularities. If you decide to switch back, you can typically start the new pack of YAZ immediately after finishing the Loette pack, but it is best to confirm this with your healthcare provider.

In summary, it is not unusual to experience menstrual delays when switching birth control pills. Your body may need time to adjust to the new hormones. If your period does not arrive soon or if you have concerns about the suitability of Loette, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and current medications. Remember, maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider is key to managing your reproductive health effectively.

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