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What is causing my random spotting while on birth control?

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Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

Does spotting on birth control mean your pill is not being effective?

Answered by Dr. Balakrishnan. R

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Balakrishnan. R is an Obstetrician and Gynecologist specializing in women’s reproductive health, pregnancy care, and childbirth management. He provides comprehensive care, including prenatal and postnatal guidance, infertility support, and routine gynecological treatments. Known for his compassionate approach, Dr. Balakrishnan ensures personalized care, focusing on the overall well-being of women and helping them make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Spotting in between cycles, when you are regularly taking birth control pills, means that the endometrium, or the inner lining of the uterus, is not being fully supported by the hormones. If you are not punctual in taking pills or have vomited immediately after taking the pill, then that will be the problem, so you have to make it a point to take the pill regularly, preferably at the same time every day.

If you are taking low-dose pills, then the dose is insufficient, so you have to switch to the higher-dose pills. The component of Ethinyl estradiol in the pill of 30 mcg is a high dose and good for these spotings instead of the 20 mcg pills.

If you have been putting up weight recently. Hormones may be insufficient for that new weight. I hope pregnancy has been ruled out before starting the pills, and local factors like polyps or fibroids projecting into the uterine cavity have been ruled out by ultrasound scans of the pelvis.

Local factors like spotting or discharge from the cervix, especially after sex, need a local examination and treatment. If all possibilities have been ruled out, then just give support of tablet Estradiol valerate 2 mg (Progynova) two tablets a day until the day of periods. This will support the lining and spotting. It will stop in a day or two.

I hope this information helps you.

Feel free to ask further queries.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Vinodhini J.
Published At March 22, 2020
Reviewed At August 5, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Balakrishnan. R is an Obstetrician and Gynecologist specializing in women’s reproductive health, pregnancy care, and childbirth management. He provides comprehensive care, including prenatal and postnatal guidance, infertility support, and routine gynecological treatments. Known for his compassionate approach, Dr. Balakrishnan ensures personalized care, focusing on the overall well-being of women and helping them make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vinodhini J. is a Dental Surgeon with extensive years of clinical experience. She specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and oral health issues, including restorative, surgical, and cosmetic procedures. With a patient-centered approach, she focuses on maintaining oral health, alleviating discomfort, and enhancing smiles. Her expertise ensures comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s dental needs and overall wellbeing.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Balakrishnan. R is an Obstetrician and Gynecologist specializing in women’s reproductive health, pregnancy care, and childbirth management. He provides comprehensive care, including prenatal and postnatal guidance, infertility support, and routine gynecological treatments. Known for his compassionate approach, Dr. Balakrishnan ensures personalized care, focusing on the overall well-being of women and helping them make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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