What are the Reasons to Spot While on Birth Control Pills?

Spotting while on birth control

Many women take oral contraceptives, or birth control pills, to regulate periods and prevent pregnancy. A number of factors may cause spotting in between periods while using the pill.

Starting the Pill

When first starting on the pill, a woman may experience inconsistent spotting as her body adjusts to the hormones. This spotting should resolve after a few months of use.

Missing a Dose

If a dose of the birth control pill is missed, light bleeding or spotting may occur. Missing a dose can make the pill less effective in preventing pregnancy.

Light Periods

Sometimes while taking the pill, a period may be very light and resemble spotting. This light spotting or bleeding instead of a full period is common.

Timing

If the birth control pill is not taken at the same time of the day for every dose, intermittent spotting can occur.

Considerations

Many reasons can be involved for spotting while taking oral contraceptives. If spotting is a concern, consult a doctor.

References

• FAQ's for Birth Control Users