Can I start my birth control (Levlen ED and the generic version) while I am on my period?
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About a week and a half ago I missed my pill twice as I had run out, because of this I started bleeding (I use my pill to suppress my period). I quickly brought a new pack (generic instead of levlen itself) and started the pill once again on the third day - however I had experienced breakthrough bleeding for the next few days, something I had never experienced before.
So I stopped taking my pill as to let my body have a period, today is Sunday and I am wondering whether or not I should begin the pill again or if this will just prolong the breakthrough bleeding - otherwise I will just wait my period out.
Thank you for your help.
1 like, 1 reply
Guest casey555
Posted
Dear casey,
There is no 'correct' answer- it depends a lot on your particular circumstances and personal choice.
A. If you prefer to be assured of effective contraception & a regulated 'period' (i.e. a monthly withdrawal bleed), then re-start the pill now, finish the pack, take a week's break and then you'll be back to your usual schedule. If you're worried about the risk of pregnancy from your recent episode of missed pills, take a pregnancy test in 3 weeks time. And condoms for the first week of the fresh pack, as I'm not sure where in your last pack you skipped the pills.
B. If you prefer to "wait it out" for your natural period to return then you may need to wait either a few weeks or a few months before this happens (post pill amenorrhoea), during which time you and your partner will have to rely on much less effective contraception (i.e. condoms).
Most of us would probably choose option A, but as I said, it's a personal decision.
Rgds,
Adhari