Cambridge, MA
A 22-year-old female asked:
Is it normal to have really heavy cramps with breakthrough bleeding while using birth control?
1 doctor answer • 1 doctor weighed in

Dr. Jeff Livingstonanswered
Obstetrics and Gynecology 24 years experience
Breakthrough bleed: Breakthrough bleeding (bleeding at the wrong time) is very common on birth control. It happens in about 1/3 of users. Its no big deal and usually self corrects over time. If you are not satisfied or it continues to happen then consider using a different birth control method. It is a common side effect and does not mean something is wrong or that the pill is not working.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.6k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Similar questions
A 21-year-old female asked:
What can I do to stop breakthrough bleeding while coming off birth control?
2 doctor answers • 2 doctors weighed in

Dr. George Kingsley IIIanswered
Obstetrics and Gynecology 33 years experience
Not Much: You body has to regulate itself, something the pill has been helping to do. If your cycles were irregular before starting the pill, they will likely be again. Maintain a regulated diet (goal of same # of calories per day), make sure your thyroid is properly maintained and your cycle should improve over time.
Created for people with ongoing healthcare needs but benefits everyone.
4.4k viewsAnswered >2 years ago
Last updated Apr 7, 2016
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