What Is Withdrawal Bleeding? On Birth Control, After Stopping, More

When it comes to preventing pregnancies and treating certain other issues, hormonal birth control is a very popular choice. Birth control options include:

• hormonal implants
• intrauterine devices (IUDs)
• shots
• pills
• patches

Among these options, pills are the most common type of contraception used by sexually active women in the United States.

All forms of hormonal birth control work by preventing the ovaries from releasing an egg every month and by thickening the body’s cervical mucus at the opening of the uterus. Together, these prevent a female’s eggs from being fertilized.

Many forms of hormonal birth control are either inserted into the vagina, injected into the skin, or taken by mouth. The latter includes “extended or continuous use” birth control pills. These are taken orally every day to help prevent unwanted pregnancy.

However, a few types of birth control only give the body 21 days of hormones and allow for one week of no hormones. This is the case with birth control patches, vaginal rings, and 21-day combined pills.

Patches are usually reapplied once a week for three weeks, and then aren’t worn for one week. A vaginal ring is worn for three weeks, and then taken out during a fourth week. Similarly, after taking three weeks of combined pills, you may either not take any pills or begin taking “placebo” pills. The placebo pills don’t contain hormones.

During your break week, you’ll experience something called withdrawal bleeding. This bleeding is similar to the regular menstrual period you would get if you weren’t using birth control patches, rings, or pills.

There are many birth control options on the market, but only certain hormonal birth control has the potential to cause withdrawal bleeding. Here’s an overview of the most common hormonal birth control options:

Injections

• Injections that contain progestin include the Depo-Provera shot, which must be taken once every three months, and the Nexplanon implant, which lasts up to three years.
• They don’t cause withdrawal bleeding if taken continuously as prescribed.
• You may still have irregular bleeding and spotting.

Intrauterine devices (IUDs)

• Hormonal IUDs that contain progestin last about three to five years. They may result in no period or a light period after being inserted. The timing of periods can be irregular, especially right after the IUD is placed.
• Copper IUDs last about 10 years. These are hormone-free, so your body will cycle through periods just like it did without the IUD. Some women notice a slight increase in menstrual flow for the first year after having the IUD placed.

Patches

• Patches that contain estrogen and progestin are reapplied every week for three weeks, with an optional fourth week off before the cycle repeats.
• They cause withdrawal bleeding during the break week if taken as prescribed.

Pills

• Pills come in a 21-day estrogen and progestin combined pill, an estrogen and progestin combined pill intended for extended or continuous use, and a progestin-only “minipill. ”
• The 21-day pill pack causes withdrawal bleeding during the break week if taken as prescribed.
• Extended or continuous cycle pills also have a week scheduled for a withdrawal bleed, but there is a longer amount of time between periods on these pills.

Vaginal rings

• This is a 21-day estrogen and progestin vaginal ring.
• It causes withdrawal bleeding if worn for 21 days and then removed for a week as prescribed.

Taking a 21-day pack of combined pills with a week-long break after the last active pill in your pack means that you’ll experience withdrawal bleeding before taking your next active pill.

The same goes if you reapply a birth control patch once a week for three weeks and then don’t apply it during the fourth week, or wear a vaginal ring for three weeks and remove it during the fourth week.

Much like a regular menstrual period, withdrawal bleeding is caused by a drop in hormone levels in the body. The drop in hormones triggers the release of some blood and mucus from the lining of the uterus out through the vagina.

Birth control pills come in higher and lower doses. Low-dose forms of birth control are highly recommended by doctors because they carry the lowest risk of blood clotting, heart attack, stroke, and other serious side effects. These low-dose medications usually cause lighter and shorter withdrawal bleeding than high-dose medications.

Withdrawal bleeding on a patch, ring, or combined 21-day pack of birth control isn’t the same as a regular menstrual period. It’s usually much lighter and shorter and causes fewer symptoms.

However, some women still experience menstruation-like symptoms while on hormonal birth control. These may include:

• a mix of blood and mucus that passes through the vagina during your break week
• abdominal bloating
• breast tenderness
• digestive issues, such as constipation or diarrhea&
• fluid retention and weight gain
• headaches
• mood swings

While many women feel more comfortable having what feels like a “period,” it’s not medically necessary to have withdrawal bleeding each month. In fact, many women who see withdrawal bleeding as a nuisance take extended or continuous use pills with no break to avoid it altogether.

However, a major benefit is that having withdrawal bleeding may help you better keep track of your health. Having withdrawal bleeding is a sign that you’re not pregnant. Not experiencing withdrawal bleeding when you should could indicate a change in your health, including pregnancy caused by birth control failure. Keep in mind that this is rare, but it can happen.

Meanwhile, with extended or continuous-use hormonal birth control, you will never have withdrawal bleeding, and so you may not notice signs of birth control failure and early pregnancy.

When taken correctly at the same time every day (aside from your break week, if you have one), hormonal birth control is 91 to 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy.

It may seem like you’re getting your period when you begin your break week of not taking hormonal birth control. But withdrawal bleeding isn’t the same as a regular menstrual period.

When a woman of reproductive age isn’t on birth control, the lining of her uterus thickens throughout each month. This is to prepare the body for a possible pregnancy. If she doesn’t get pregnant, she will shed this lining as blood and mucus through her vagina. This is called a menstrual period.

When a woman of reproductive age takes hormonal birth control, the lining of her uterus doesn’t thicken in the same way. The hormones in the medication prevent that from happening.

However, when the hormones are cut off during the break week, some blood and mucus will be shed through the vagina. This withdrawal bleeding is usually lighter than a natural menstrual period and lasts for fewer days.

Withdrawal bleeding happens during the last week of the course of your four-week hormonal birth control. But you may also notice some bleeding before your week of withdrawal bleeding. This is called breakthrough bleeding.

It’s common to have breakthrough bleeding when on hormonal birth control, especially within the first three months of starting a new medication.

You may also experience breakthrough bleeding if you:

• miss one or more doses of your birth control pills
• don’t properly apply your birth control patch
• don’t properly insert your birth control ring
• are taking a medication or supplement that interferes with hormonal birth control
• continue taking your birth control during your break week

If you wear your patches or ring for all three prescribed weeks, or take all 21 active pills in the packet, you’ll still be protected from unwanted pregnancy during your break week. So it’s still safe to have sex during withdrawal bleeding, as long as you’ve taken your hormonal birth control as prescribed.

If you’ve missed any doses, use a backup method of birth control during your break week.

After stopping hormonal birth control, most women will have withdrawal bleeding within two to four weeks. After this withdrawal bleeding, your natural menstrual period should come back itself the following month. This period will be heavier and longer than withdrawal bleeding. You may also experience some premenstrual syndrome (PMS) symptoms.

It make take several months for your period to become a monthly occurrence. However, underlying medical conditions and other factors such as stress and exercise may reduce the regularity of your natural periods.

As soon as you get off hormonal birth control, you’re no longer protected from pregnancy. It’s important to switch to another form of contraception immediately if you’re not planning on getting pregnant.

If you’re trying to get pregnant, consider waiting until you’ve had at least one natural period. This can help you make sure your body is healthy for pregnancy. It will also make it easier for your doctor to establish an accurate due date when you become pregnant.

You’ll experience withdrawal bleeding during your break week if you don’t take extended or continuous-use birth control. While this bleeding isn’t the same as a natural period, it can be a helpful way to keep track of your reproductive health.

You’re still protected from pregnancy while you’re having withdrawal bleeding as long as you’ve taken your birth control as directed.

Talk to your doctor if bleeding while on birth control seems excessive or if you have other symptoms that are difficult to manage.

What Happens After You Stop Taking Birth Control? Mood Swings, Bleeding, and Other Symptoms

Updated

11 February 2022

|

Published

19 February 2019

Fact Checked

Reviewed by Kate Shkodzik, MD, Obstetrician and gynecologist

Flo Fact-Checking Standards

Every piece of content at Flo Health adheres to the highest editorial standards for language, style, and medical accuracy. To learn what we do to deliver the best health and lifestyle insights to you, check out our content review principles.

When you stop taking birth control, it can sometimes result in disruptions to your menstrual cycle. Stopping the use of any type of hormone-based contraceptive significantly impacts your reproductive system. It can lead to bleeding, weight fluctuations, late or irregular periods, and cramps.

How to stop taking birth control pills after long-term use

Currently, there is no prescribed method on how to stop taking birth control pills after long-term use. You can choose to quit all of a sudden (i.e., in the middle of a pack) or finish the pack you’re currently on. 

If you finish the pack, even though it may take a while, your period will occur around the same time it did before. So if you’d prefer to return to a more regular period schedule, it’s best to finish the pack.

After you stop taking birth control, your body needs time to adjust to the new balance of hormones, similarly to when you started taking the pill in the first place. Possible side effects include slight bleeding or spotting, abdominal cramps, and irregular periods for the first few months. Gradually, these symptoms should disappear on their own.

The most important thing to remember once you stop taking birth control is that pregnancy can occur at any time if you remain sexually active. Consider switching to a barrier method of contraception like condoms to prevent unwanted pregnancy.

Common side effects when you stop taking birth control

As mentioned above, people who stop taking birth control might observe the following symptoms:

• Irregular periods
• Weight fluctuations
• Bleeding
• Cramping
• Hormonal acne
• Mood swings
• Heavy, painful periods

Next, Flo offers an in-depth look at a few of the side effects of going off the birth control pill.

Irregular periods

Unpredictable menstruation is a perfectly normal occurrence after going off the pill because your body requires some time to adjust to hormonal shifts. Such irregularities usually last for a few months but may stick around for up to a full year if you were receiving the birth control shot.

Weight gain/loss

Since contraceptives typically contain estrogen — known for causing fluid retention — when you stop taking the pill, it could cause you to lose some weight. Alternatively, some people will gain weight after they stop taking birth control. Gaining weight after you stop taking the pill is rare, though, so it might be a good idea to consult with your health care provider if this is happening to you. Do your best to follow a nutritious diet and exercise regimen in order to maintain a healthy weight.

Bleeding

If you stop taking birth control in the middle of a menstrual cycle, it’s not unusual to see bleeding or spotting before your next period. Keep in mind, though, bleeding between periods should only be a temporary issue that goes away after a few months. If you’re experiencing spotting or bleeding for longer than that, make sure to talk to your health care provider.

Cramping

Some people take the pill to alleviate severe cramps, and abdominal pain may return after you stop taking birth control. Such discomfort is also common if you stop taking the pill midway through your cycle and also when you haven’t had your period in a while.

When will your period start after you stop taking birth control?

Most people get their first period about two to four weeks after they stop taking birth control in the middle of a pack. However, this varies greatly depending on each person’s cycle, weight, stress levels, diet and lifestyle, and medical conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome.

Ovulation after you stop taking birth control

For many, ovulation begins within a few weeks of discontinuing use of oral contraceptives. Once again, those who were getting the birth control shot will likely have to wait longer for ovulation to resume.

Furthermore, your overall health and the amount of time you were on birth control can also affect the estimated timeline. These and several other factors impact your body’s ability to restore its usual hormonal balance, menstrual activity, and fertility.  

Generally speaking, birth control pills give people the freedom to control their own reproductive systems by protecting against unwanted pregnancy. Once you’ve decided to stop taking birth control, be aware that irregular periods, cramps, and bleeding may occur. These side effects are temporary and should eventually resolve on their own. 

Remember, handy tools like the Flo app can track symptoms of ovulation, including the consistency of cervical fluid and basal body temperature. This will help generate a more accurate prediction of when you’re likely to be ovulating.

References

“The Contraceptive Injection.” NHS Choices, NHS, 7 Feb. 2018, www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/contraceptive-injection/.

“Combined Pill.” NHS Choices, NHS, 6 July 2017, www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/combined-contraceptive-pill/.

“Birth Control Pill Fact Sheet.” University of Iowa Hospitals & Clinics, Nov. 2015, uihc.org/health-topics/birth-control-pill-fact-sheet.

Mayo Clinic Staff. “Birth Control Pill FAQ: Benefits, Risks and Choices.” Mayo Clinic, Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 25 May 2019, www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/birth-control/in-depth/birth-control-pill/art-20045136.

History of updates

Current version
(11 February 2022)

Reviewed by Kate Shkodzik, MD, Obstetrician and gynecologist

Published
(04 February 2019)

Combined oral contraceptive (COC) withdrawal syndrome

Table of contents

• How to take contraceptives
• When to take the tablets?
• How do combined oral contraceptives affect a woman’s body
• Reasons for not taking oral contraceptives, how to do it right
• The effect of the abolition of COCs – what is it manifested in
• Myths and reality about the abolition of FGM
• How to support the body during the refusal of oral contraceptives
• Rebound effect after discontinuation of the drug

How to take contraceptives

The main indication for taking COCs is to prevent unwanted pregnancy.

COCs are two-component pills containing two different hormones, most often taken for 21 days (this is the number of hormone pills in the package), and then a 7-day break begins (taking placebo pills or just skipping pills), during which menstruation-like occurs reaction. There is another regimen – 28 tablets in a blister, which are taken all 28 days in a row without the need for breaks. As a rule, the first tablet is taken on the first day of the menstrual cycle, but the doctor may prescribe a different method of use.

Each tablet should be taken at the same time each day for 21 days. You also need to pay attention that most COCs have a minimum course of admission – 3 months.

When should I take the tablets?

To reduce the risk of nausea, vomiting or malaise, it is best to take the tablets before bed or during dinner, at the same time. However, deviations of 2-3 hours do not affect the effectiveness of the drug.

If a tablet has been missed, it should be taken as soon as possible, but first you need to determine the number of hours – how much time has passed since the last tablet was taken. The next steps depend on this:

• Late appointment up to 4 hours: take the missed tablet. Such a short period of time does not affect the effectiveness of contraception.
• Late up to 12 hours: take a tablet as soon as possible. A delay of up to 12 hours is acceptable, but should not be repeated thereafter.
• More than 12 hours: take the forgotten tablet immediately. Then, for the next 7 days, additionally use barrier methods of contraception.

In a situation where a woman decides to use the combined oral contraceptive as a form of pregnancy prevention, the gynecologist must take into account many factors in order to choose the best drug. Unfortunately, just because a close friend praises a drug doesn’t mean it will be safe and effective for others. In addition to the gynecological examination, breast examination and blood pressure measurement, the doctor asks the patient about her general health. In this case, it is especially important to exclude liver dysfunction and problems with the blood coagulation system. When it turns out that there are no contraindications to the use of hormone therapy, the gynecologist selects the most optimal drug.

How combined oral contraceptives affect a woman’s body

Combination birth control pills contain two types of female sex hormones: progestin and estrogen. The first suppresses ovulation and reduces the permeability of mucus to sperm, prevents the transport of the egg to the uterine cavity and changes the lining of the uterus so that implantation of the embryo becomes impossible. Estrogen, in turn, stops the maturation of the follicle in the ovary.

Unfortunately, not all women can use this method of contraception. Contraindications are overweight, obesity, and diabetes. It should be borne in mind that estrogen in birth control pills can contribute to easier blood clotting. If a woman suffers from thrombosis (or has a predisposition to it), hypertension and diseases of the cardiovascular system, drugs such as COCs are often not recommended. Estrogen in this group of women may increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, stroke, and heart attack. Another side effect of COCs can be the development of depression, and it may seem to a woman that life has lost its colors. Although, this phenomenon is not so common.

When using hormonal drugs, one must not only be vigilant about the risk of possible side effects, but also pay attention to situations in which their effectiveness may decrease. Most often, this occurs as a result of interactions with other drugs: antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, and some drugs to treat epilepsy attacks.

Reasons for not taking oral contraceptives, how to do it correctly

The reasons for stopping the pill can be different – mainly the desire to conceive a child or the transition to other methods of contraception. Also, a common reason for withdrawal in girls is the fear that long-term use of hormones can adversely affect the reproductive system. That is why it is important to regularly consult with a gynecologist to monitor possible reasons for stopping COC use.

Taking COCs can reduce libido, many women report a decrease in desire for sexual intercourse, as well as the appearance of vaginal dryness. Often, this is what causes the abolition of oral contraceptives.

What happens after the withdrawal of COC? In fact, when it comes to stopping COC use after a year of use or longer, a healthy woman usually does not experience withdrawal symptoms. Another thing is when before taking contraceptives there were skin problems, PMS symptoms, painful periods, an irregular menstrual cycle – all this can return after a while. While taking COCs, these conditions are successfully controlled by masking the problem, but the main solution should be to correct them regardless of the use of hormonal contraception.

Naturally, it is necessary to stop taking COCs by finishing the already started package of the drug, in no case throwing it in the middle of the menstrual cycle. In a good way, both the appointment and the abolition of such contraception should be under the supervision of a gynecologist.

The effect of COC withdrawal – how it manifests itself

It must be remembered that the body, accustomed to the fact that every day receives a constant dose of hormones, after stopping the use of birth control pills can “rebel”. The consequences of stopping birth control pills are individual for each woman. However, they are all the result of changes in the functioning of the endocrine system. Therefore, the abolition of hormonal contraceptives can cause the following consequences:

• Periodic menstrual disorders
• Deterioration of hair condition
• The appearance of acne (if it was already there)
• Return of dysmenorrhea (especially if the problem existed before starting hormonal contraception)
• Mood swings
• Breast reduction

Of the positive effects that can be observed after the abolition of COCs:

• Return of libido
• Reducing mood swings
• Disappearance of vaginal dryness

Important: the decision to stop using hormonal contraceptives should be made in consultation with the gynecologist, which will minimize the negative consequences of stopping the use of birth control pills.

Myths and reality about the withdrawal of COCs

• After the withdrawal of COCs, the menstrual cycle is disturbed, menstruation may stop

A similar phenomenon can occur and be diagnosed by a doctor as ovarian hyperinhibition syndrome, which is expressed in the form of secondary amenorrhea.

• Pregnancy after COC withdrawal is impossible

This statement only partially makes sense. Indeed, after the withdrawal of drugs, there may be a problem with conception, especially with prolonged use of COCs. However, in some cases, such a problem with a favorable outcome is independently resolved against the background of normalization of ovarian function.

• COCs cause depression and mood swings

Indeed, some women report a deterioration in mood and the development of depression at the time of using COCs.

How to support the body during withdrawal from oral contraceptives

1. Adequate nutrition Compliance with even the simplest diet (do not overeat, increase the consumption of fruits, vegetables, seafood) will help the body during the period of COC withdrawal. Diet can help maintain a healthy body weight and thus keep body fat at an appropriate level. Normal weight plays a huge role in maintaining hormonal balance, and therefore in the problem of how to support the body after contraception.
2. Vitamin supplements It is recommended to take B vitamins that improve the functioning of the nervous and circulatory system. It also regulates the menstrual cycle, improves the condition of the skin and hair. In addition, the intake of magnesium, which is the basis for the proper functioning of the whole organism, will not interfere.
3. Correct daily cycle. The secretion of hormones in the body is largely dependent on the correct circadian cycle. The recovery of the body after the withdrawal of COCs requires regulated secretion of the hormone FSH and LH, which, together with estrogen and progesterone, control the correct cycle of menstruation. The appropriate circadian rhythm – early sleep and early awakening – allows you to regulate the production of hormones in the body and is another answer to the question of how to support the body after contraception.
4. Holidays for the health of the endocrine system In order to restore the hormonal balance in the body, you can choose a special cleansing program under the supervision of professionals. This takes into account a properly balanced cleansing diet, mental rest, as well as physical activity. Thanks to a comprehensive program, any side effects of contraception disappear faster, and the body acquires a good physical and mental condition.

Rebound effect after drug withdrawal

The rebound effect in gynecology consists in the temporary “turning off” of ovarian function, followed by the abolition of COCs to obtain ovulation and increase the chances of pregnancy. After the completion of the COC intake, the hormonal background begins to recover, and in an enhanced form. As a result, superovulation sets in – two eggs capable of fertilization mature. Thus, the rebound effect is considered as one of the methods of infertility treatment.

Stopping birth control pills usually does not cause unpleasant side effects, since the latest generation of pills minimize the risk of negative effects on the body. However, the hormonal background of each woman reacts differently, and each body needs time to recover.

Pay attention! During the period of taking COCs, as such, there is no classic menstruation, withdrawal bleeding is observed. Withdrawal bleeding occurs during the period when a woman is not taking hormonal pills, it is less profuse and does not last long.

However, do not be afraid to cancel COCs: physical activity, being under the supervision of a doctor, a balanced diet and positive emotions will help restore hormonal levels faster and return a normal menstrual cycle.

• Hormonal contraception. Prilepskaya, Mezhevitinova, Nazarova // Ed. V. Prilepskaya. – 2011. – 296 p.
• Modern contraception. New opportunities, safety criteria, basics of counseling. Podzolkova N.M., 2019. – 128 p.
• Drug therapy in the practice of an obstetrician-gynecologist. Pestrikova, Yurasova, Yurasov // Ed. N. Mitrokhina., 2011. – 512 p.
• Modern contraception. New opportunities and safety criteria: a guide for physicians. Podzolkova, Rogovskaya, Kolodka // Ed. E. Bakalina – 2013. – 128 p.

RUS2175440 (v1.0)

Questions about contraception: page 5

Ask a Question

I do not use oral contraceptives. What are the possible methods of safe contraception for health?

The safest and most reliable method of contraception is the condom. To increase its contraceptive effect, spermicidal preparations such as “Pharmatex” and “Patentex – Oval” can be used simultaneously. If the condom breaks, emergency contraception must be used. Read more about this in the section “Medical publications” on the website of our Center.

On what day after intercourse can pregnancy be determined and how? And if suddenly I’m pregnant, can I get by with taking any medications without having an abortion?

Pregnancy can be diagnosed no earlier than 2 weeks after conception. To do this, take a blood test for hCG. At the smallest stages of pregnancy, you can have a medical abortion, avoiding curettage. Read more about it in the publications.

I am 26 years old. gave birth. This month, for the first time, I started taking “Janine” from the first day of the cycle. The first two days of menstruation were meager, the next 12 days – very meager. Maybe this oral contraceptive is not suitable for me?

During the first 1-3 cycles of hormonal contraceptives, this bleeding may be normal. They do not reduce the contraceptive effect of the pills. If, after 3 months, bloody intermenstrual discharge persists, you will have to change the drug to another.

I am 20 years old and have been taking Diana-35 for 5 months now. After the end of the reception, will there be again inflammatory processes on the face and problems with the menstrual cycle, if now everything is fine? I was examined and passed all the tests for hormones, the doctor prescribed to take these pills.

After finishing taking Diane-35, everything can return to normal, because the cause of cosmetic defects and menstrual irregularities is not eliminated, hormonal contraceptives only temporarily “suspend” its action.

When is it possible to undergo sterilization? What is this?

Sterilization refers to tubal ligation for the purpose of irreversible contraception if you have more than two children or if you have a medical condition that makes pregnancy absolutely contraindicated.

I am 20 years old, I want to take birth control pills, but at the consultation the doctor found a contraindication for me. The fact is that I have a benign vascular tumor on my lower leg. I will never be allowed to take OK?

You need to see a vascular surgeon for a consultation. After the possible removal of this tumor, it will be possible to talk about the appointment of hormonal contraceptives.

Can bleeding caused by taking Postinor be regarded as menstruation and start taking Logest from the 1st day?

To start taking hormonal contraceptives, you need to wait until the first day of a normal period.

I took a pill “Postinor”, 12 hours later – another pill. There was no bleeding after taking Postinor. Should there be bleeding after taking Postinor?

Menstruation after taking “Postinor” does not begin immediately after taking the pill, but may be delayed and even come on the day of the expected menstruation. It would be optimal to visit a doctor in order to select a reliable and safe contraceptive, to which Postinor, alas, does not apply.

I have been taking Yarina for the first month, after 3 tablets my chest started to ache and swell. I drank to the last, there is no menstruation, pregnancy is excluded. What could it be and is it necessary to start the second package if there was no menstruation?

Breast tenderness and engorgement may occur with any oral contraceptive. This side effect usually goes away on its own after 2 to 3 months. If you do not have a menstrual-like reaction within a 7-day break, you need to contact a specialist. The doctors of the clinic “ART-MED” are ready to help you, do not start taking the second package.

Is it true that after the use of “Postinor” there comes an uncontrolled replenishment by conventional methods (diet, sports)? If yes, is there any way to deal with this process?

When prescribing hormonal contraception, no doctor in the world can assume and program 2 things – this is “postpill” amenorrhea and weight gain. The development of these side effects depends only on the individual characteristics of the organism. It is advisable to contact a gynecologist to select the optimal and reliable contraceptive, since taking Postinor has an adverse effect on the body and more than 2 times a year, you should not resort to this method.

Four months ago I started using Nuvaring, after 2 months I started to feel itching. Has handed over analyzes – a thrush. The next month, while the treatment was like, the ring was not introduced (on the advice of a doctor). Those. got a break for a month. Then she introduced the ring as usual on the second day of the cycle. Menstruation turned into bleeding that lasted 14 days. I took the ring out a week after I put it in. The bleeding continued for another 2 days and stopped. Did I do the right thing by removing the ring prematurely? Can I enter the ring in the next cycle? Or switch to another method of contraception?

This method of contraception is most likely not suitable for you. It is necessary to be additionally examined to determine the drug that you will be taking. You need to consult a doctor, in no case do not start taking oral contraceptives on your own and do not insert the ring until the cause of bleeding is clarified.

Which oral contraceptives do not affect libido? After a year of taking Lindinet 20, the sexual desire disappeared.

All hormonal contraceptives reduce libido to a greater or lesser extent. Try to take a break from taking the pills for 2-4 months.

Had 2 sexual intercourses in the evening (with a break of 5 hours), during the second one the condom broke. What is the probability that my partner’s sperm recovered in 5 hours and I could get pregnant? I washed the vagina with citric acid, introduced Pharmatex (cream), after 10 hours I took a postinor tablet, after 12 another one. And no reaction of the body, everything is as usual! The usual cycle is after 8 days, but after 8 days the period did not come. Can such a reaction of the body mean that the postinor did not work? I am pregnant?

The effect of postinor is not always immediately manifested by menstrual-like bleeding. Sperm is not “recovered” in a few hours (the period of sperm maturation is about 70 days), but with repeated sexual intercourse (after a few hours), a smaller amount of previously matured sperm is ejected. To confirm or deny the presence of pregnancy, it is necessary to donate blood for beta-human chorionic gonadotropin. This substance begins to be released into the woman’s blood when 7 to 10 days pass from the moment of fertilization. This analysis can be done in almost any laboratory. If pregnancy has not occurred, it is advisable to contact a gynecologist to select the optimal and reliable contraceptive, since taking Postinor has an adverse effect on the body and more than 2 times a year, you should not resort to this method.

Xenia, 22 years old, married. For 3 years she regularly took Regulon. Then I decided to take a break, did not take contraceptives for 5 months, after which I used the ring for 2 months. When I used the ring, I observed a strong increase in the mammary glands, recovered by 10 kg. After that I stopped using the ring. Then, the first menstruation was on time, and now for 2 months there are no hints, while nothing hurts. Over the past six months, I have gained a lot of weight, although I still eat, the hair on my head falls out profusely, pregnancy is excluded. I suspect I have a hormonal imbalance. Advise please, what analyzes (on what hormones) to me it is better to hand over?

Unfortunately, we do not know your medical history (i.e. complete information about you, the onset of menstruation, the formation of the menstrual cycle, etc.), so it is not possible to answer your question unambiguously. Most likely, there is a “postpill amenorrhea syndrome” or amenorrhea after the withdrawal of OK, which occurs when the hormones taken are excessively exposed from the outside to the regulatory centers in the central nervous system. When prescribing hormonal contraception, not a single doctor in the world can assume and program 2 things – this is postpill amenorrhea and weight gain. The development of these side effects depends only on the individual characteristics of the organism. You need to see a doctor internally. The doctor, after a thorough conversation and examination, will offer you the necessary examination, which will include not only hormone tests.

My girlfriend has been taking Janine for 9 months now. Her periods always started on the 1st or 2nd day after the start of the 7 days of “rest”. This time these 2 days have passed, today is the third. So far, she has always taken her pills on time. Is there a chance of pregnancy if I end up in it every time. Does climate change affect or not?

If your girlfriend takes Jeanine regularly, always at the same time and without gaps, then the chance of pregnancy is extremely low. Climate change has little effect on such a “simulated” cycle. A menstrual-like reaction to drug withdrawal may begin on the 1st-7th day of the break between tablets and it is not at all necessary that this should occur strictly on the 1st or 2nd day. If menstruation does not start within the prescribed 7 days of the break, your girlfriend needs to see a doctor.

After a cystectomy in April 2006 for a paraovarian cyst (common) and a long exhausting visit to many gynecologists, my doctor prescribed a choice: to drink Logest or Yarina. I have never had any infections, tk. In addition, we always use condoms with my husband. The above drugs were prescribed to correct the cycle and because of skin problems (acne). Logest did not suit me – because. no antiandrogenic effect + significant weight gain. From Yarina – problems with the cardiovascular system. The doctor said – choose what you want. Can I start taking Trimerci or Diana 35? The therapist, having learned that I am taking COCs, add. prescribed Dipyridamole (Kurantil) for the night. Everything is normal with the coagulogram. I didn’t finish 3 tablets from the last package of Yarina (feeling unwell) and now I don’t know how many days I should take a break? Pregnancy should not be, because. We use condoms most of the time. And is it worth taking a break, because before that, I had already taken Logest for 4 cycles and 3 for Yarina (half a year in total)?

The duration of COC use is determined by your attending physician who is monitoring you. It is currently not possible to resolve this issue in absentia. 4 drugs have an antiandrogenic effect – Yarina, Diane-35, Belara and Zhanin. You did not indicate what kind of problems with the cardiovascular system you have, and why Yarina is not suitable for you. Diane-35 is the “gold standard” in the treatment of hyperandrogenism. And do you have it? If so, what origin – adrenal or ovarian. However, no gynecologist can predict a few things in advance. The first is whether the patient will gain weight on this drug or not. The World Health Organization allows weight fluctuation plus or minus 3 kg when taking COCs. The second is how the patient will tolerate a particular drug. There is an individual intolerance to a particular drug. If you are going to continue taking Yarina, and have not finished drinking 3 tablets from the previous package, take a 7-day break, as usual. During this time, a menstrual-like reaction occurs. In general, there is no need to take breaks when taking COCs, it is more “harmful” to the body than continuous use –

This is a fairly effective combined method of contraception.

I take Mercilon contraceptive pills, for a whole week now I have been having almost black discharge in chunks, and my period is still far away! Is it a miscarriage or what?

You most likely have so-called “breakthrough bleeding”. Either you missed a pill, or Mercilon’s hormone levels are too low for you. To clarify the diagnosis, you need to do an ultrasound of the small pelvis and come to an appointment with a gynecologist. The doctor will prescribe treatment and / or recommend changing the drug to another with a slightly higher hormone content.

I took pastinor twice with a difference of 2 days, there was a need. Although there were monthly, I decided to play it safe. After taking pastinor, a week later, when the menstruation ended, bleeding began, apparently due to the drug. The bleeding went on for 3 days, a day later the condom broke during intercourse. I want to buy more pastinor tomorrow, what is the percentage of getting pregnant?

The probability of pregnancy is quite real. But the likelihood of various endocrine disorders that you will cause uncontrolled intake of high-dose hormonal drugs is even higher. I would recommend that you go to an appointment with a gynecologist for the selection of adequate safe contraception.

This month I started taking Logest, I want to speed up my periods so that they do not get on the road. Can I not finish 3 tablets from this package? There were no sexual contacts this month. When should I start the next pack? Will this reduce the contraceptive effect next month?

It is better to start drinking the next package of Logest immediately after the previous one without a 7-day break. So your menstruation will not come at all in this cycle, and you will not have to worry about the contraceptive effect.

On the fifth day after the critical days, sexual intercourse occurred and the condom broke. Immediately douched with potassium permanganate. The partner immediately brought pastinor. I drank it, it turns out, an hour later. Immediately after taking the pill, pain in the lower abdomen began. After 12 hours I took the second pill. A week later, start discharge, which turned into a slight bleeding. It went on for 3 days. All this was accompanied by nausea and pain in the lower abdomen. Crete. days should start on 23 and these discharges were 8. What is the chance of pregnancy? What test should I take to make sure that I am not pregnant or vice versa? What is the probability of delaying critical days if Pastinor was taken for the first time?

The chance of pregnancy is small, but it exists. To exclude pregnancy, take a blood test for hCG on the first day of the delay of the next menstruation. Menstruation may not come not only because of the onset of pregnancy, but also in connection with taking Postinor.

The instructions for OK (in this case, Logest) describe the following scheme: if you start taking the drug from the first day of menstruation, then there is no need to additionally protect yourself, and if you start taking OK 2-5 days of the menstrual cycle, then additional protection measures. There are other opinions of experts, some say, even if the first pill is taken on the first day of the menstrual cycle, then you need to additionally protect yourself for 10-14 days, and if from the 2nd, then the whole month. What is the reason for such a divergence of opinions and which one to follow?

If you start taking hormonal contraceptives from the first day of the cycle, then the production of all hormones responsible for the maturation of the egg is reliably blocked. Therefore, additional contraception is not required. If the pills are taken from the 2-5th day of the cycle, then the maturation of the egg has begun, and it is not known what stage it will reach. Therefore, additional contraception is needed, preferably before the next menstruation.

I am 20 years old, I have been drinking Jeanine for about six months, during which time my hair has become thinner and thinner. Could this be related to the use of the drug? My doctor said that not only does Janine’s hair not fall out, but vice versa. But I doubt it, because mother has the same problem. Should I stop taking the drug and which doctor should I consult?

The drug is unlikely to be a problem. Consultation of the trichologist and the endocrinologist is necessary for you.

The doctor prescribed Janine for me. painful periods. I have never drank OK before. Should I start drinking it or is it better to choose a less dosed drug?

Hormonal contraceptives are selected individually after examination and appropriate examination. It is impossible to do this in absentia.

I am 19 years old. Recently, I started taking Regividon on my own, as indicated in the instructions, on the first day of the cycle. However, by the sixth day, the discharge did not decrease. I, frightened, stopped taking the pills, after which my discharge continued until the 14th day?

You have had your period after stopping hormonal contraceptives. Most likely, the next monthly will come in about a month. But if you continue to experiment with your body, the function of the hormonal system may be disturbed. It is better for you to come to the internal consultation of a gynecologist for the selection of a contraceptive that is right for you. You can contact us at the center.

How to choose the right oral contraceptives? When I came to the gynecologist asking for help in choosing birth control pills, the doctor simply gave a list of funds and said: “Choose!”. Is it right and all pills are suitable for every person?

An examination is required to select hormonal contraceptives. After that, you can choose from several preparations similar in composition.

How to choose the right birth control pills without a doctor?

None. It is impossible to do this without the help of a doctor.

3 days before the start of menstruation I took “Postinor”, now I have a delay of 2 days. The test is negative. Can a pregnancy test give a negative result due to taking Postinor?

Most likely, taking “Postinor” provoked a delay in menstruation. And any pregnancy tests become positive no earlier than 2 weeks after conception.

I took Lindinet, but on the advice of a doctor I switched to Novinet. A few days before the end of the pack, light bleeding begins for 4 months. Should I change the drug, if so, which one? Can Rigevidon 20 be considered as an alternative?

I would recommend that you switch to a drug with a slightly higher hormone content. But in absentia to advise something specific is impossible.

Due to intestinal disease, malabsorption syndrome and maldigestion, my periods stopped 10 years ago. During these years, only during a period of long-term improvement, they “come” for about half a year.