Q:
I have been on oral birth control for almost two years now. I began taking it originally to regulate my periods, but this week my period started a week and a half early. This has never happened before, and I have been taking my pill regularly. is this normal or healthy?
A:
Many factors can contribute to "break through bleeding" while on hormonal contraceptives. If you have taken the pills regularly, without missing any, and have not been on any medications that can interfere with the pill's effectiveness, then pregnancy is unlikely. STDs can cause abnormal bleeding, so if you think you could be at risk, you should be checked.
If the abnormal bleeding continues in another cycle or two, you may wish to discuss a dosage change with your health care provider.
~The Doc
