A week early

iVillage Member
Registered: 08-04-2004
A week early
1
Wed, 10-13-2004 - 2:00pm
I am taking the generic form of Ortho Tri-cyclen, it is called Tri-Sprintec. I always start the day I take my 3rd or 4th white pill. I am suppose to start the whites on Sunday. Today I took my 4th blue pill, and I have started bleeding. Not heavy, just when I go to the bathroom, there is blood on the paper. Is this normal? Why is this happening? Is this a period?
iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Wed, 10-13-2004 - 4:49pm
Hi beerchick, welcome!

Bleeding is a very common side effect if you are within the first 3 cycles of beginning oral contraceptives, or if you have been taking your pills at irregular hours that can also cause irregular bleeding. If you are new to OTC then your body may still be adjusting to the hormones. If I were you I'd give yourself another 2 or 3 cycles and see if there is a pattern to the bleeding. You might also want to read the post ‘Irregular bleeding anyone?’ in the FAQs for other things that might trigger irregular bleeding. Let us know how you’re doing, ok?

Good luck,

      Jill