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What could be the reason for bleeding after taking contraceptives?

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Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have been on Depo shot for a year. I switched to the pill, as the shots did not go well. I took the pill for seven days when I first got it, then stopped for the past three weeks. I have been having on-and-off bleeding (brown or pink) and have had intermittent headaches for the past three days. Please help.

Thank you.

Answered by Dr. Vandana Andrews

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vandana Andrews is a dedicated General Practitioner and Family Physician specializing in General Medicine. She has expertise in managing acute and chronic illnesses, preventive healthcare, and patient education. Skilled in treating conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory infections, Dr. Andrews is known for her compassionate, patient-focused care. She is committed to delivering comprehensive, evidence-based medical services to individuals and families across all age groups.

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

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

If you stopped taking the birth control pill for three weeks and have been experiencing brown or pinkish vaginal bleeding and headaches, you may be experiencing a withdrawal bleed. Withdrawal bleeding can occur when you stop taking hormonal contraceptives, as your body adjusts to the decrease in hormones. Withdrawal bleeding is not a true period, as it does not necessarily indicate the shedding of the uterine lining. It is simply a result of the decrease in hormones and can vary in duration and intensity. If you have been bleeding consistently for more than a week, or if the bleeding is heavy or accompanied by other symptoms such as cramping or clotting, I suggest consulting a doctor to rule out any underlying medical conditions.

It is also important to note that stopping hormonal contraception can increase your risk of pregnancy, as you may ovulate and become fertile before your next menstrual cycle. If you do not wish to become pregnant, it is recommended that you use a backup method of contraception, such as condoms or spermicide during this time.

I hope this information will help you. In case of further queries, please revert.

Thank you.

Medically reviewed by iCliniq medical review team
Published At March 9, 2024
Reviewed At June 2, 2026

Education:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vandana Andrews is a dedicated General Practitioner and Family Physician specializing in General Medicine. She has expertise in managing acute and chronic illnesses, preventive healthcare, and patient education. Skilled in treating conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory infections, Dr. Andrews is known for her compassionate, patient-focused care. She is committed to delivering comprehensive, evidence-based medical services to individuals and families across all age groups.

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:

MD

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vandana Andrews is a dedicated General Practitioner and Family Physician specializing in General Medicine. She has expertise in managing acute and chronic illnesses, preventive healthcare, and patient education. Skilled in treating conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory infections, Dr. Andrews is known for her compassionate, patient-focused care. She is committed to delivering comprehensive, evidence-based medical services to individuals and families across all age groups.

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

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