Microgestin 1/20 FE: Your Questions Answered on Birth Control Use

Microgestin 1/20 FE Tablets 28's

Hello Doctor, I previously asked about the emergency contraceptive pill.
In September, I took the emergency contraceptive pill, and then I had a light period in October (only needing to change a panty liner once a day).
From the 1st to the 5th, it was brown, and from the 6th to the 10th, it was red.
I did not have a period in November, so after consulting with a doctor, I started taking the prescribed birth control pills on December 14.
On December 25 and 27, I noticed light spotting (dot-like).
On the 28th, there were brown and red spots (dot-like/panty liner), and I experienced mild cramping for two days, similar to premenstrual symptoms.
My breasts felt swollen and remained that way from December 30 to January 5.
I believe my period started around the third week of taking the birth control pills, with bright red spotting.
On the 4th and 5th, there were sometimes stringy blood clots, and I needed to change regular sanitary pads frequently (every 3-4 hours), but I didn’t need to use overnight pads.
Now, it is about the third week of taking the birth control pills, and my period started (counting from the heaviest day on December 30 to January 5).
It has been two days since I finished the placebo pills, and my period has not stopped.
Q1.
Should I continue following the doctor's instructions? Should I finish the placebo pills and then start the next pack? Initially, I asked the doctor if I should continue taking them if my period came, and the doctor advised me to follow the instructions and finish all 21+7 pills regardless of whether my period came.
The doctor also prescribed a year's supply of birth control pills for me to pick up every three months, and I should return for a follow-up after finishing them (the doctor performed a pelvic exam and said my uterus and ovaries were fine).
Q2.
If I finish the placebo pills and start the next pack, will my period stop? Normally, when taking birth control pills to regulate the cycle, shouldn’t my period come during the week of placebo pills? Why did it come a week early?
Q3.
I have read a lot about birth control pills.
I understand that the 21 pills suppress ovulation, but I don’t understand why the 7 placebo pills still provide contraceptive effectiveness.
I had sexual intercourse on the 20th pill, which was January 2 (using a condom safely and confirming it did not break).
However, I read that during the first month of using birth control pills, the effectiveness is uncertain for the first seven days, and it stabilizes after that.
Is the sexual intercourse during this time safe with the use of birth control pills and condoms?
Q4.
Lastly, I would like to ask about my test results, but I don’t understand the medical terminology in English.
I tried to translate using a dictionary and only know that one of them is likely a cervical cancer screening.
Tests: (1) CHLAMYDIA (4030) Chlamydia CT NOT DETECTED.
Tests: (2) GONORRHEA (4040) Gonorrhea NG NOT DETECTED.
Note: An exclamation mark (!) indicates a result that was not dispersed into the flowsheet.
Document Creation Date: 12/09/2015 1:53 PM.
_____________________________________________ Negative Pap, follow up for annual in 1 year and Pap in 3 years.
What does this mean, Doctor?

Qingqing, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/06

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

A1.
The premedication contains various ingredients; please continue taking it, and then the prescribing physician will evaluate and make a judgment.
A2.
If you finish the placebo pills and continue to experience bleeding, consult a physician to check for any other underlying conditions.
A3.
The effectiveness of the first pack of pills may not be optimal for contraception; it is best to also use condoms simultaneously.
A4.
Test one: Chlamydia; test two: Neisseria gonorrhoeae, both of which are sexually transmitted infections.
The results for both tests were negative.

Reply Date: 2016/01/06

More Info

Understanding the use of birth control, particularly Microgestin 1/20 FE, can be complex, especially when navigating through irregular menstrual cycles and concerns about contraceptive effectiveness. Let's break down your questions and provide clarity on each aspect.

Q1: Should I continue taking the pills as prescribed?
Yes, you should continue taking the pills as directed by your doctor. Birth control pills, including Microgestin 1/20 FE, are designed to be taken consistently, regardless of whether you experience a menstrual period. The regimen typically consists of 21 active pills followed by 7 inactive (placebo) pills. Your doctor’s advice to complete the entire pack is standard practice, as it helps maintain hormonal balance and ensures the contraceptive effectiveness of the pills.

Q2: Will my period stop after finishing the inactive pills?
It is common for some women to experience variations in their menstrual cycle when starting birth control pills. While many women will have their period during the week of inactive pills, others may experience changes in timing or flow. If you are taking the pills correctly, your period may become lighter or even stop altogether over time. This is due to the hormonal regulation that the pills provide, which can suppress ovulation and alter the uterine lining.

Q3: How do the inactive pills provide contraceptive protection?
The inactive pills do not contain hormones; however, they are part of the regimen that helps maintain a consistent routine. The primary mechanism of action for birth control pills is to prevent ovulation, which occurs during the active pill phase. The effectiveness of the pill is maintained as long as you take the active pills consistently. The first seven days of starting the pill can be a period of adjustment, and it is often recommended to use a backup method of contraception during this time. Since you used a condom during intercourse, you added an extra layer of protection, which is a good practice.

Q4: Understanding your test results
Your test results indicate that both Chlamydia and Gonorrhea were not detected, which is a positive outcome. The note about "neg pap" refers to a negative Pap smear result, indicating that there are no abnormal cells detected in your cervical screening. The recommendation to follow up for an annual check-up in one year and a Pap smear in three years is standard practice for maintaining reproductive health. Regular screenings are essential for early detection of any potential issues.

Additional Considerations
1. Irregular Bleeding: It’s not uncommon for women to experience irregular bleeding or spotting when they first start taking birth control pills. This can be due to the body adjusting to the hormones. If the irregular bleeding continues or becomes concerning, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider.

2. Contraceptive Effectiveness: Remember that while birth control pills are highly effective when taken correctly, no method is 100% foolproof. Combining methods, such as using condoms along with the pill, can enhance protection against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

3. Consult Your Doctor: If you have ongoing concerns about your menstrual cycle, the effectiveness of your birth control, or any side effects, it’s crucial to discuss these with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and may suggest alternative contraceptive methods if necessary.

In conclusion, continue taking your birth control as prescribed, monitor your body’s responses, and maintain open communication with your healthcare provider for the best outcomes in your reproductive health.

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