Are long periods normal on birth control?

Are long periods normal on birth control?

Hormonal birth control pills alter the body’s natural hormone levels. Although many people use hormonal contraceptives to shorten or regulate their periods, they can sometimes result in heavier or prolonged periods. Abnormal periods are common during the first few months of taking a new hormonal medication.

How long should a period last on birth control pills?

The birth control pill tends to produce a regular period that occurs every month and lasts for three to five days. A hormonal IUD usually results in a lighter period (less bleeding) or no period at all.

Why am I bleeding on my active pills?

Your period on the pill is technically called withdrawal bleeding, referring to the withdrawal of hormones in your pill, and in your body. The drop in hormone levels causes the lining of your uterus (the endometrium) to shed (1). This bleeding may be slightly different than the period you had before taking the pill.

Can your period last 3 weeks?

How long is too long? Generally, a period lasts between three to seven days. A menstrual period that lasts longer than seven days is considered a long period. Your doctor may refer to a period that lasts longer than a week as menorrhagia.

How do you stop bleeding while on birth control?

If you’ve taken at least three weeks of active pills, to stop breakthrough bleeding, all you have to do is come off of the medication for five days; on day six, whether or not you are still bleeding, just begin taking the active pills again. The breakthrough bleeding will stop.

When should I go to the ER for my period?

If you’re experiencing dizziness, weakness, shortness of breath, or chest pain along with heavy menstrual bleeding, seek medical attention. According to research, 1 in 20 people who menstruate have heavy menstrual bleeding. Some common causes include uterine fibroids or hormonal imbalances.