Your Menstrual Cycle After Stopping Birth Control Pills

Discontinuation of contraceptive pills?

I started taking oral contraceptives on the first day of my period, July 17, and stopped after about 14 days.
Approximately three days after stopping, I experienced some bleeding, but it was not spotting; it was similar to a normal menstrual flow.
My expected period is around the 17th to 18th of next month, and it has not yet arrived.
I am currently experiencing lower abdominal bloating and pain.
I have had sexual intercourse, but it was with a condom.
I would like to know if there is a chance of pregnancy or if my period has already occurred.
Thank you.

ci, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/19

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
For pregnancy concerns, please perform a home pregnancy test or visit a gynecologist for examination and evaluation four weeks after your most recent sexual intercourse.
2.
The menstrual cycle can be influenced by various psychological and physiological factors; if your period is more than two months late, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist for examination and evaluation.

Reply Date: 2021/08/19

More Info

When you stop taking birth control pills, your body can take some time to adjust back to its natural menstrual cycle. The hormonal changes induced by the pills can affect your cycle, and it’s not uncommon to experience irregularities in your periods after discontinuation.
In your case, you started taking birth control pills on July 17, and after about two weeks, you stopped. The bleeding you experienced shortly after stopping the pills could be a withdrawal bleed, which is common when stopping hormonal contraceptives. This bleeding can mimic a menstrual period but is typically lighter and shorter than a regular period.
Since you mentioned that your next expected period was around August 17-18 and it has not arrived yet, it’s possible that your body is still adjusting to the hormonal changes after stopping the pills. The absence of your period could be due to a variety of reasons, including hormonal fluctuations, stress, changes in weight, or other factors affecting your menstrual cycle.

Regarding the possibility of pregnancy, while you did have unprotected intercourse after stopping the pills, you mentioned that you used a condom. If the condom was used correctly and did not break or slip, the chances of pregnancy are significantly reduced. However, no contraceptive method is 100% effective, so there is still a small risk of pregnancy.

The symptoms you are experiencing, such as abdominal bloating and pain, can be attributed to several factors. These can include premenstrual syndrome (PMS), ovulation pain (if you are ovulating), or even stress and anxiety about the possibility of pregnancy. It’s also worth noting that hormonal fluctuations can cause similar symptoms.

If you are concerned about the possibility of being pregnant, the best course of action would be to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are widely available, easy to use, and can provide you with quick results. If the test is negative and your period still does not arrive, it may be advisable to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed or if further testing is necessary.

In summary, after stopping birth control pills, it’s common for your menstrual cycle to be irregular for a few months. The bleeding you experienced could be a withdrawal bleed, and the absence of your expected period could be due to hormonal adjustments. If you are concerned about pregnancy, taking a home pregnancy test is a good next step. If you have further questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice and support.

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