Contraceptives

If you are using an oral contraceptive pill, hormone injection, implants or an IUD (intra uterine device) for your method of birth control and have found some changes in your menstrual bleeding patterns, this useful patient handout may reassure you. It explains some of the ways in which different contraceptives can affect your menstrual cycle and when you should consult your doctor. Usually no action is needed but being informed often allays unnecessary fears.

Most menstrual bleeding changes while using contraceptives are to be expected and are not harmful.

The handout also explains about breakthrough bleeding or spotting between periods.

If you have concerns about your menstrual changes with your contraceptive, don’t
stop using it without talking to your clinician. Often nothing is needed but your health care provider can assess the situation and provide treatment if necessary. Some clinicians suggest using a menstrual diary or calendar to record menstrual changes so that you can have an objective record. The diary will help you remember what changes have occurred so you can tell your clinician.

If you need a reminder about where the menstrual bleeding comes from each month this video will explain.