I'm 20 years old and just started birth control to help decrease severe cramps...I'm on ortho tri cyclen lo. Well, at the end of my second week of pills I started some light bleeding, now I am at the beginning of my third week of pills and I'm bleeding even more along with moderate cramping and some sharp, stabbing pains in my lower abdomen. I start the inactive pills next week, so am I just going to have a 2-week long period? I guess I'm just wondering if it is normal to have this much bleeding..will it balance itself out, or is the otc lo just not enough for me? Also, I went on this to stop cramps, not to have them last longer, is this normal? I've had no other bothersome side effects so far.
Thanks for any advice... :)

I'm 20 years old and just started birth control to help decrease severe cramps...I'm on ortho tri cyclen lo. Well, at the end of my second week of pills I started some light bleeding, now I am at the beginning of my third week of pills and I'm bleeding even more along with moderate cramping and some sharp, stabbing pains in my lower abdomen. I start the inactive pills next week, so am I just going to have a 2-week long period? I guess I'm just wondering if it is normal to have this much bleeding..will it balance itself out, or is the otc lo just not enough for me? Also, I went on this to stop cramps, not to have them last longer, is this normal? I've had no other bothersome side effects so far.
Thanks for any advice... :)


Spotting is common when starting any birth control, and it can last several weeks. Usually, it stops after a few cycles, but some women find that these problems continue longer, and opt to try another combination of hormones. Cramping is also usually a temporary side effect. You may require a "stronger" pill but give your body adequate time. Many women have these problems with the low-dosed pills.

You may have a 2-week period, too. Just keep taking 1 pill everyday as directed. If the spotting continues into your next cycle, consult your physician for a brand change. You could try regular Ortho Tri-Cycle which is a little stronger each week, or try a different combination of hormones altogether.

Thank you very much, that makes me feel much better. :wave: