Experiencing Blood Clots After Starting Birth Control Pills: Is It Normal?

Experiencing blood clots after taking emergency contraceptive pills?

I am taking birth control pills for the first time, starting from the fifth day of my menstrual cycle with Yaz (24+4).
I had unprotected intercourse on the 11th day and continued taking the pills until I reached the 18th pill, at which point I started experiencing bleeding that was somewhat heavy, unlike the spotting mentioned online as a side effect of the medication.
By the time I reached the 23rd pill, I noticed the presence of blood clots.
Is this symptom normal, and is the contraceptive effect still effective? Thank you, doctor.

Ms. Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/25

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, it still has contraceptive effects.
Finish the pack and observe if the same situation occurs with the next pack.
If it does, it is recommended to try a different type of contraceptive pill.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/08/25

More Info

When starting birth control pills, it is not uncommon to experience some irregular bleeding or spotting, especially during the first few months of use. This is often referred to as "breakthrough bleeding" and can occur as your body adjusts to the hormones in the pills. However, the presence of blood clots can be concerning and warrants further discussion.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that while light spotting or breakthrough bleeding can be a normal side effect of starting birth control pills, heavier bleeding or the presence of blood clots is not typical. Blood clots can indicate a more serious issue, especially if they are accompanied by other symptoms such as severe pain, swelling in the legs, or shortness of breath. These symptoms could suggest a condition known as venous thromboembolism (VTE), which is a risk associated with hormonal contraceptives, particularly in women who have other risk factors such as obesity, smoking, or a history of clotting disorders.

Regarding the effectiveness of the birth control pill, if you have been taking the pills consistently and correctly (at the same time every day), the contraceptive effectiveness should remain intact. However, if you are experiencing significant bleeding or blood clots, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They may want to evaluate your symptoms further and determine if the current birth control method is appropriate for you or if an alternative should be considered.

In addition, it is essential to monitor your body’s response to the pills. If the bleeding continues or worsens, or if you experience any other concerning symptoms, you should seek medical attention promptly. Your healthcare provider may perform a physical examination, and possibly an ultrasound or blood tests, to rule out any underlying issues.

In summary, while some irregular bleeding can be expected when starting birth control pills, the presence of blood clots is not typical and should be evaluated by a healthcare professional. It’s crucial to communicate openly with your doctor about your symptoms and any concerns you may have regarding your birth control method. They can provide personalized advice and ensure that you are using a contraceptive method that is safe and effective for your individual health needs.

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