HomeAnswersObstetrics and Gynecologybirth control pillI have brown spotting after stopping contraceptives. Why?

What could be the reason for brown spotting after taking contraceptive pills?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

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Published At March 17, 2023
Reviewed AtJanuary 18, 2024

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have a light brown discharge. I just started birth control pills the first week of this month after being off them for two months and having unprotected sex. I took an emergency contraceptive after that. I realized I had missed two days of birth control pills. I took the two missed pills today and have had brown spotting since then. What could be the cause?

Kindly help.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for your query.

I understand your concern. The little brown discharge you are experiencing could be related to several factors, including starting birth control pills, taking emergency contraception, missing pills, and having unprotected sex. It is not uncommon for women to experience spotting or light bleeding when they start taking birth control pills as their bodies adjust to the hormones in the medication. This can happen even if you have taken the pills before. Additionally, taking emergency contraception can cause changes in our menstrual cycle and lead to spotting or bleeding. Missing two birth control pills can also cause breakthrough bleeding or spotting, as it can disrupt the hormonal balance in our bodies. However, it is important to note that missing two pills increases your risk of pregnancy.

I hope this has helped you. Thank you.

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

Dr. Muhammad Zohaib Siddiq
Dr. Muhammad Zohaib Siddiq

Cardiology

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