Bleeding (usually irregular and light, i.e. 'spotting') while on the birth control pill (the oral contraceptive pill) or while taking a progestogen. With regard to the pill, it is common (and of no sinister importance) in the first few months of pill use; but if it happens after many months' satisfactory use of the pill then it can signal: (1) interference with the efficacy of the pill (i.e. a risk of ovulation and pregnancy) by an illness with diarrhea, simultaneously taking antibiotics, or a drug interaction (taking additional medications that speed up the pill's metabolism; or (2) coexisting pathology of the cervix or the uterus. Unexplained or persistent breakthrough bleeding means you should see your physician.
Nonorganic endometrial bleeding during the use of oral contraceptives.
Bleeding that occurs between periods and is usually heavier than spotting.
A form of bleeding from the uterus between periods which is associated with taking birth-control pills and progesterone-like drugs such as Provera and Duphaston.
Bleeding that usually occurs during anovulatory cycles. The bleeding is due to changes in estrogen levels. close window
irregular vaginal bleeding, like a light period, that can occur when taking hormone drug treatment for Endometriosis. This is probably caused by the body trying to overcome the suppressive effects of the hormone drug treatment. Also, a delayed dose of hormone treatment can cause breakthrough bleeding.
A term used to describe bleeding that happens between periods. Usually describing bleeding that is heavier than spotting.
Breakthrough bleeding is bleeding while taking the active pills of combined oral contraceptives, or other hormonal contraceptives. The bleeding is usually light, often referred to as "spotting," though a few women may experience heavier bleeding. Breakthrough bleeding is most common when a woman first begins taking oral contraceptives, or changes from one particular oral contraceptive to another, though it is possible for breakthrough bleeding to happen at any time.