bleeding after stopping and re-starting

iVillage Member
Registered: 01-31-2004
bleeding after stopping and re-starting
1
Sun, 03-19-2006 - 1:37pm
I am on bcp and have been for quite awhile. I have started mail ordering my pills through the pharmacy used by my insurance. Last month I didn't get my new pack in time and rather than starting a pack midcycle I sat a cycle out and went back on the Sunday after my period started the next month. My problem is that my period never got heavy (or to a normal level) and has been light-- but has been ongoing for 12 days now, even though I am back on my pills. Has anyone experienced something like this. I am not sure at what point to be concerned... it is definitely annoying. Help!
iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Sun, 03-19-2006 - 10:33pm

Hi phous, welcome!

I think your irregular bleeding is because after the several weeks off hormones your body has to adjust to them again. The adjustment process can take several cycles and any side effects should decrease over the adjustment interval. You might be interested in several posts in our FAQs about Common pill side effects and irregular bleeding. As long as you were using another effective form of contraception during your hormone free interval and continued to use back-up for the first 7 active pills in your new pack I don't think you have anything to worry about. I’m sorry you are bleeding. I know it’s annoying but irregular bleeding is a very common side effect.

Thanks for stopping by. If you have more questions please ask. Let us know how you’re doing, ok?

Good luck,

      Jill