QUESTION ABOUT THE PILL

iVillage Member
Registered: 08-04-2003
QUESTION ABOUT THE PILL
1
Wed, 02-18-2004 - 1:48pm
okay, i just started using the pill, the ortho tricyclen lo one, problem is i am the 15th pill, and i have been bleeding since the 13th pill, at first i thought i was just spotting because i just started using it, but it is starting to get heavier, i know i haven't been good at taking them at exactly the same time everyday, but i usually take it within at least an one/two hours so any idea whats happening?? have i started my period??? am i reacting?

confused

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-25-2003
Wed, 02-18-2004 - 2:14pm
Don't worry, it's okay - this is very common when starting a new Pill, especially one that is lower in hormones than some of the other ones on the market, as OTC-Lo is. The general rule of thumb is to give a new Pill 3 months (that is 3 Pill packs, 3 cycles) for your body to get used to it, and if you're still having trouble then, to switch.

It could be that you are very sensitive to taking your Pill on time, as well. A 1-2 hour difference isn't huge, although if it's 2 hours early one day, and 2 hours late the next, your body might be saying, "what?!" I know a woman who HAS to take it every day on the DOT, or else she has breakthrough bleeding (which is what you're experiencing). Try to remember to take it at the same time every day, set an alarm on a watch or cell phone to remind yourself, or take it when you eat your lunch, or brush your teeth, or whatever. That may help, and even if it doesn't, at least then you've cut down on the question of whether it's a sensitivity to time, or whether your body just doesn't like OTC-Lo, which is entirely possible.

I know breakthrough bleeding stinks, but buy some pantiliners and hang in there. It's totally possible that it could be GONE next month.

Good luck!

Caitlin