Birth Control Pills: Timing and Spotting Concerns

Oral contraceptives

Hello doctor, I usually start taking my birth control pills on the fifth day of my period.
After finishing a pack, my period typically starts on the third day, so I begin the next pack on the seventh day after stopping.
This time, I finished my pills on November 10th around 4 PM, and that night I experienced some bright red spotting.
On November 11th, I had brown discharge throughout the day.
Should I start the next pack on the seventh day after stopping, as I usually do, or should I count from November 11th and start taking the birth control pills on the fifth day? Is it possible to start taking them earlier?

Linlin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/11

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

You can reply as follows.
You can start early.
As long as you confirm that the menstrual flow has completely stopped, you can continue with the next pack.
Sincerely, Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/11/11

More Info

When it comes to understanding birth control pills, timing and spotting can often raise questions and concerns. Based on your description, it seems you have a regular routine for taking your birth control pills, starting on the fifth day of your menstrual cycle and continuing until the end of the pack. You also mentioned experiencing some unexpected spotting after finishing a pack, which can be a common occurrence for many women.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that spotting or breakthrough bleeding can happen for various reasons while on hormonal contraceptives. This can include hormonal fluctuations, missed pills, or even the body adjusting to the medication. In your case, the fresh red blood you noticed on November 10th, followed by brown spotting on November 11th, could be attributed to a few factors. It could be a sign that your body is reacting to the hormonal changes, especially if you have been consistent with your pill regimen. However, it’s crucial to monitor the situation closely.

Regarding your question about when to start your next pack of pills, the standard recommendation is to begin taking your pills again after the seven-day break, regardless of any spotting. This means that if you typically start your new pack on the seventh day after finishing the previous one, you should continue with that schedule. Starting the new pack early (before the seventh day) is generally not advised unless directed by your healthcare provider, as it can disrupt the hormonal balance and potentially lead to more spotting or irregular bleeding.

If you are experiencing consistent spotting or any other unusual symptoms, it’s advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They can assess whether your current birth control method is suitable for you or if adjustments are necessary. Additionally, if you find that you are frequently experiencing spotting, it may be worth discussing alternative contraceptive options that might better suit your body’s needs.

In summary, continue with your regular schedule of starting the new pack on the seventh day after your break, and keep an eye on any further spotting. If the spotting persists or if you have any concerns about your birth control method, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can provide you with the most accurate information based on your health history and current situation. Remember, maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider is key to effectively managing your reproductive health.

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