Breakthrough Bleeding and Stopping Birth Control Pills

Discontinuation of contraceptive pills?

Hello doctor, I started taking the oral contraceptive pill (Loette) on the first day of my period, and today is the 13th day.
I started experiencing bleeding on the 11th day, and by the 13th day, the bleeding amount is similar to my menstrual flow, accompanied by lower abdominal pain similar to menstrual cramps.
Is this normal? I would also like to know when I should stop taking the pill.
Can I stop taking it immediately, or should I finish the entire pack?

Rina, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/23

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, please temporarily stop taking the medication and treat it as your menstrual period.
Start the next pack of birth control pills on the fifth day and see if everything is normal.
If it is still not normal, consider switching to another type of birth control pill.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2021/05/23

More Info

Breakthrough bleeding is a common occurrence for individuals who are starting a new birth control regimen, particularly with hormonal contraceptives like Loestrin (洛依欣). This type of bleeding can happen when your body is adjusting to the hormones in the birth control pills. It is not unusual for users to experience spotting or bleeding during the first few months of starting the pill, especially if they begin taking it during their menstrual cycle.

When you start taking birth control pills, your body may take some time to adjust to the new hormone levels. The bleeding you are experiencing on the 11th day of taking the pill could be attributed to this adjustment period. It is important to note that this breakthrough bleeding is generally not a cause for concern, especially if it is not accompanied by severe pain or other alarming symptoms. However, if the bleeding is heavy and resembles a regular menstrual period, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

As for stopping the pills, it is generally recommended to complete the entire pack of birth control pills before discontinuing them. This helps maintain consistent hormone levels in your body and can prevent irregular bleeding or other side effects that may occur if you stop suddenly. If you decide to stop taking the pills, it is best to do so at the end of the pack. If you are experiencing significant discomfort or bleeding, you should reach out to your healthcare provider to discuss your symptoms and consider alternative contraceptive methods or adjustments to your current regimen.

In addition, if you are concerned about the breakthrough bleeding or if it continues beyond the initial adjustment period, it may be worth discussing with your doctor the possibility of switching to a different formulation of birth control. Some individuals may respond better to different types of hormonal contraceptives, which can help minimize side effects like breakthrough bleeding.

In summary, while breakthrough bleeding can be a normal side effect of starting birth control pills, it is essential to monitor your symptoms and consult with your healthcare provider if you have any concerns. Completing the full pack of pills is generally recommended before making any changes to your contraceptive method. Always prioritize open communication with your healthcare provider to ensure that you are receiving the best care tailored to your individual needs.

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