Birth Control Issues: Irregular Periods and Concerns

Contraceptive pill issues?

Hello, I have been taking the contraceptive pill "Yueji" (21-day regimen) for five months.
My period was expected to occur from November 3 to November 10, but it started five days early (from October 30 to November 10).
The menstrual flow was very light and lasted for a while (the first three days were brown).
I continued to take the remaining pills as usual (finished the last pill on November 2).
I have a regular sexual partner, but there was no ejaculation inside.
I bought another pack of "Yueji" to start on November 10, so my period should have started around December 1 or 2.
However, even though I am experiencing bloating and breast tenderness, my period has not arrived yet.
Should I see a doctor or wait a few more days? Thank you.

A, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/04

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the method for taking a 21-day oral contraceptive pill is as follows: After completing one full cycle, you should stop taking the pills for seven days before starting the next pack.
The second pack should also be taken with a seven-day interval.
Regardless of which day of your menstrual cycle your period starts after stopping the pills, if you take the pills too late, it may not suppress ovulation and could lead to irregular bleeding.
Therefore, your bleeding may be related to incorrect usage.
It is recommended that you consult a physician to check for any other abnormalities before following the correct method of use.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2015/12/04

More Info

Understanding birth control issues, particularly when it comes to irregular periods, can be quite complex and concerning. Based on your situation, it seems you have been using a combined oral contraceptive pill (the one you referred to as "悅己") for five months. You experienced an early onset of your menstrual period, which was lighter than usual and lasted longer than expected. Now, you are facing a delay in your next period, despite having regular sexual activity without ejaculation.

Firstly, it's important to understand that hormonal contraceptives like the one you are taking can sometimes cause changes in your menstrual cycle. This can include lighter periods, irregular bleeding, or even missed periods altogether. The early onset of your last period could be attributed to the hormonal fluctuations caused by the pill, especially if you have been consistent in taking it. The brown discharge you experienced at the beginning of your period is often old blood, which can be normal, especially when on hormonal birth control.

The symptoms you mentioned, such as abdominal bloating and breast tenderness, can also be side effects of the contraceptive pill. These symptoms can mimic early pregnancy signs, which can understandably lead to anxiety about potential pregnancy. However, since you have been diligent about taking your birth control and have not had unprotected intercourse, the likelihood of pregnancy is low.

Given that your period is now delayed, it would be prudent to take a home pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy as a cause for your missed period. These tests are generally reliable and can provide peace of mind. If the test is negative and your period does not arrive within a week, it would be advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They can assess your situation more thoroughly, possibly checking for other underlying issues that could be affecting your menstrual cycle, such as hormonal imbalances or other gynecological conditions.

In the meantime, keep track of your symptoms and any changes in your cycle. This information can be very helpful for your doctor. If you experience any severe symptoms, such as intense pain, heavy bleeding, or any other concerning signs, seek medical attention promptly.

In summary, while irregular periods can be a common occurrence when using hormonal birth control, it’s essential to monitor your body’s signals. Taking a pregnancy test can help clarify your situation, and if concerns persist, consulting with a healthcare provider is the best course of action. They can provide personalized advice and support based on your health history and current symptoms.

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