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Is bleeding after stopping Norethisterone normal?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I have been using Nexplanon for the past four years. Recently, I experienced around 10 days of continuous bleeding. My doctor prescribed Norethisterone, which successfully stopped the bleeding. However, less than a week after stopping the medication, I have started bleeding again. I am wondering if such bleeding is expected and whether I should be concerned. Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Reema Wankar

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Reema L. Wankar is an accomplished medical professional with an MBBS (2010) and MD in Community Medicine (2016) from Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Nashik. With over 15 years of experience as a general practitioner, she delivers comprehensive, patient-centered care. Dr. Wankar has contributed to national and international publications, reflecting her commitment to continuous learning, research, and advancing innovative approaches in healthcare.

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

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Nexplanon is known to cause irregular bleeding (refers to any bleeding from the uterus that does not follow a normal menstrual pattern), and this effect may become more noticeable over time. After three to four years of use, its hormonal effects can begin to diminish, which often results in spotting or prolonged periods.

Norethisterone (Norethindrone) helps temporarily stop bleeding by stabilizing the uterine lining. However, once the medication is stopped, hormone levels can drop, leading to what is known as withdrawal bleeding (the bleeding that happens when there’s a sudden drop in hormone levels, usually after stopping a hormonal medication like birth control pills or progesterone tablets). This may explain the bleeding you are experiencing now, especially since you had prolonged bleeding beforehand.

I recommend you follow these steps.

  1. Think about switching birth control methods. A hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) is a T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus by a doctor to prevent pregnancy. It is a long-term, reversible form of birth control that can offer better control over bleeding, or you might consider using combined birth control pills.

  2. Talk to your doctor about long-term hormonal therapy. The treatment that uses hormones or medications that affect hormone levels to manage certain health conditions. It works by either adding, blocking, or changing the levels of hormones in the body if the irregular bleeding keeps happening.

  3. Get an ultrasound to check for any underlying reasons, like fibroids or other conditions.

  4. Visit your gynecologist for a physical checkup and further guidance.

I hope this helps. Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for your reply.

I am currently using Nexplanon and plan to continue with it, as it has been effective for me. At the moment, I am still taking Norethisterone and had my dose recently. I would like to understand what to expect once I stop the medication, specifically, how long withdrawal bleeding typically lasts afterward. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated!

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Reema Wankar

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Reema L. Wankar is an accomplished medical professional with an MBBS (2010) and MD in Community Medicine (2016) from Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Nashik. With over 15 years of experience as a general practitioner, she delivers comprehensive, patient-centered care. Dr. Wankar has contributed to national and international publications, reflecting her commitment to continuous learning, research, and advancing innovative approaches in healthcare.

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

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and can understand your concern.

Withdrawal bleeding usually lasts between three to eight days, though this can vary from person to person. Some individuals may only experience light spotting; it refers to a small amount of vaginal bleeding that is lighter than a regular period. It may appear as just a few drops of blood or light stains on underwear and can range in color from pink to brown or red for a shorter time. However, if the bleeding has continued for more than 10 days, it is important to consult your doctor or gynecologist for a proper evaluation. Identifying the underlying cause is always better than relying solely on medication.

I hope this helps.

Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At June 25, 2025
Reviewed At June 25, 2025

Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Reema L. Wankar is an accomplished medical professional with an MBBS (2010) and MD in Community Medicine (2016) from Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Nashik. With over 15 years of experience as a general practitioner, she delivers comprehensive, patient-centered care. Dr. Wankar has contributed to national and international publications, reflecting her commitment to continuous learning, research, and advancing innovative approaches in healthcare.

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

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Experiencing bleeding after stopping Norethisterone?

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Education:

MBBS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Reema L. Wankar is an accomplished medical professional with an MBBS (2010) and MD in Community Medicine (2016) from Maharashtra University of Health Sciences, Nashik. With over 15 years of experience as a general practitioner, she delivers comprehensive, patient-centered care. Dr. Wankar has contributed to national and international publications, reflecting her commitment to continuous learning, research, and advancing innovative approaches in healthcare.

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

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