First medication intake after discontinuation?
Hello Doctor: I previously took oral contraceptives for about six months and stopped for one month.
Then I started taking the over-the-counter contraceptive pill, Kylian, on the first day of my period on May 7 (as I had taken Kylian before).
However, as of today, May 18, I am still experiencing brown discharge.
Is this related to the contraceptive pill? Is this normal?
Sunny, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/05/18
Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the user: During the use of contraceptive pills, if menstruation or bleeding occurs, there is no need to stop taking the medication; continue to take it as scheduled.
Once the body adjusts to the contraceptive pills, abnormal bleeding should cease.
However, if irregular bleeding persists for more than three months or if there is heavy bleeding, it is advisable to consult a physician.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Chang
Reply Date: 2022/05/18
More Info
When restarting birth control pills, it is not uncommon to experience some irregular bleeding or spotting, which can manifest as brown discharge. This brown discharge is often old blood that is being expelled from the body, and it can occur for several reasons related to hormonal fluctuations caused by the introduction of synthetic hormones in the birth control pills.
Firstly, when you restart taking birth control pills like "Chirian," your body may need some time to adjust to the hormones again. After a month of stopping the pills, your hormonal levels would have changed, and the reintroduction of hormones can cause your body to react in various ways. The brown discharge you are experiencing could be a result of this adjustment period. It is not unusual for women to experience spotting or breakthrough bleeding during the first few months of starting or restarting hormonal contraceptives.
Moreover, the timing of your pill intake is crucial. If you have missed any doses or have not taken the pills consistently at the same time each day, this could also lead to irregular bleeding. It is essential to take the pills as directed to maintain stable hormone levels in your body. If you have been diligent about taking your pills correctly and are still experiencing brown discharge, it may simply be a side effect of the hormonal changes.
In some cases, brown discharge can also indicate the onset of your period, especially if it occurs towards the end of your pill pack. Birth control pills often regulate menstrual cycles, and the brown discharge could be a sign that your body is preparing for a withdrawal bleed, which is the period-like bleeding that occurs during the placebo week of the pill pack.
However, if the brown discharge persists for an extended period, or if you experience other concerning symptoms such as heavy bleeding, severe pain, or any signs of infection (such as a foul odor or unusual discharge), it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider. They may want to rule out other potential causes of abnormal bleeding, such as infections, polyps, or other underlying health issues.
In summary, experiencing brown discharge after restarting birth control pills is generally considered normal and is often related to hormonal adjustments. It is important to monitor your symptoms and maintain consistent pill-taking habits. If you have any concerns or if the discharge continues, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.
Similar Q&A
Understanding Brown Discharge After Starting Birth Control Pills Again
Hello Doctor: After taking birth control pills for a year, I stopped for one month and had a normal menstrual period. On the fifth day of my period, I restarted taking the oral contraceptive pills, and around the 11th day, I began to notice brown discharge. I would like to know w...
Dr. Chen Zhiyu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, please consult at the obstetrics and gynecology outpatient clinic. Thank you.[Read More] Understanding Brown Discharge After Starting Birth Control Pills Again
Unexpected Brown Discharge with Blood After Long-term Birth Control Use
Hello Doctor, I have been taking oral contraceptives for over a year now. Initially, I was on "Yasmin" and experienced some spotting issues, but after switching to "Warm Infertility T28," I did not have any spotting problems. This month, I am currently in the ...
Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, please observe for a few days. If there is no improvement, it is recommended to see a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.[Read More] Unexpected Brown Discharge with Blood After Long-term Birth Control Use
Understanding Brown Discharge: Is It a Side Effect of Birth Control?
Dear Doctor, I started taking the contraceptive pill on the 10th of this month, and two days ago I noticed that my vaginal discharge had a slight brownish tint. Could this be an indication of unstable bleeding caused by the birth control pill? Thank you.
Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
The likelihood is very high, but it still requires examination by a physician.[Read More] Understanding Brown Discharge: Is It a Side Effect of Birth Control?
Is Brown Discharge Normal After Starting Birth Control Pills?
Doctor, I started taking the contraceptive pill Yaz for the first time after my period on August 11, but I have been experiencing some brown discharge since then. Is this normal? Do I need to see a doctor? I don't have any discomfort, but I do have brown discharge that requi...
Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the first few months of taking birth control pills may result in temporary bleeding. If the bleeding persists or is heavy, you should consult a physician for evaluation and possible adjustment. It is recommended not to stop the medication; please complete this cycle. Thank...[Read More] Is Brown Discharge Normal After Starting Birth Control Pills?
Related FAQ
(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Emergency Contraceptive Pill(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Post-Coital Bleeding(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Abortion Pill(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Discharge(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Abnormal Bleeding(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Folliculitis(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Menstrual Abnormalities(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Vaginitis(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Std(Obstetrics and Gynecology)