Do you feel more confident being in control of your contraception? Same here. That’s why you need reliable access to safe and effective birth control 24/7. After all, you should be able to ask yourself "what’s best for me?" — and get information from sources you trust.
Let's explore some different types of birth control out there and how side effects may include changes to your period. Not sure where to start? No problem — we cover what to ask your doctor to find the right fit for you, too.
How does birth control affect your period?
If you’re new to hormonal birth control or changing your method of birth control, chances are you’ve got questions. What are the potential side effects of contraceptives? Will birth control affect my period?
Remember: Side effects affecting your period may vary widely depending on the person and the type of birth control being used.
Some side effects of hormonal birth control may include lighter or shorter periods, breakthrough bleeding, heavier menstrual flow, or longer periods. You may also experience some spotting or light, irregular bleeding. From convenient over-the-counter contraception like condoms and certain contraceptive pills to intrauterine devices (IUDs), there are plenty of options out there that are effective at preventing pregnancy. The key? Finding the right fit for you — and your period.
From the moment you start menstruating all the way to menopause, you deserve to know how birth control will affect your menstrual cycle from day one. It’s up to you to decide which method is right for you.
Birth control pills
While birth control pills are a reliable, highly effective form of contraception when used as directed, it’s important to be aware of potential period side effects that can occur while taking them. That said, what are some of the side effects of birth control pills on your menstrual cycle? Some people experience lighter or heavier periods while taking birth control pills, and sometimes even spotting. In some cases, you may not have a period altogether.
There are two main types of birth control pills: combined oral contraceptives (COCs) that contain both estrogen and progestin and progestin-only pills (POPs) that are estrogen-free. No matter which type of birth control pill you are taking, potential period side effects may include spotting or irregular bleeding.
What exactly is spotting? Spotting is any light bleeding between menstrual periods that is typically less heavy than a regular period. Spotting is a common concern among people using hormonal birth control pills. Spotting does not mean that your birth control isn’t effective. Talk to your doctor if you are concerned about your bleeding on birth control.
Intrauterine devices (IUD)
There are two types of IUDs: the Copper IUD and the Hormonal IUD. Changes to your period can depend on the specific type of IUD you have.
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Copper IUDs
may increase cramping and menstrual bleeding, especially in the first 6 months of use. However, most find that these initial symptoms will improve over time. -
Hormonal IUDs
usually reduce bleeding and reduce cramping1 over time. Did you just get a hormonal IUD, and are experiencing spotting or irregular bleeding in the first few months post-insertion? Irregular bleeding is totally normal, especially in the first 6 months1 of use. These symptoms should improve over time, though some users experience irregular bleeding throughout their use of the hormonal IUD. Progestin-only IUDs may also be used to reduce heavy or painful periods.1
All intrauterine devices (IUDs) require a trained health care professional for insertion and removal.
Vaginal ring
The vaginal ring is a small, flexible ring that is inserted inside your vagina and releases the hormones progestin and estrogen, two hormones that prevent ovulation. Especially within the first three months, spotting between periods2 may occur. Each vaginal ring is worn for three weeks and then removed for one week to allow for a period. A new ring is put in each month. When putting in a new ring, or washing and replacing your existing ring, you may experience spotting.
Emergency contraceptives
The “morning after” pill, such as Plan B One Step® or ella®, can affect the length of your menstrual cycle.2 After you use emergency contraception, your next menstrual cycle may start earlier or later than usual. While most people get their next period within 7 days of their expected date,3 it may be heavier or lighter than usual.
How May My Birth Control Affect My Bleeding?
Remember: most changes in bleeding patterns are totally normal with different types of birth control. However, if you have any specific concerns regarding your bleeding pattern or other symptoms, don’t hesitate to contact your doctor or healthcare provider.
“Mini-Pill” or Progestin-Only Pills (POPs), like Opill®
- May cause irregular bleeding or spotting so be sure to give your body time to adjust. Consult with a certified medical professional if you have any concerns.
Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs) containing Estrogen & Progestin
- May cause irregular spotting or bleeding in the first month of starting combined COCs.
- Initial irregular bleeding is usually temporary and may resolve as the body adjusts to the hormones.
Copper IUD
- May cause spotting, increased cramping, or heavier bleeding, especially in the first six months.
Hormonal IUD
- Irregular bleeding is common but decreases over time such that many people may have light or no bleeding after 6 months.
Vaginal Ring
- During the first few months of using the vaginal ring, some users may experience irregular bleeding or spotting between periods.
- This is generally temporary and tends to resolve as the body adapts to the hormonal changes.
Emergency Contraceptives
- Your period should start within a week of when you expect it and may be different than usual (e.g. heavier or lighter). You may have spotting in the month following use.
Birth Control & Your Period: 5 Key Questions to Ask Your Gynecologist
If you’re new to forms of birth control, chances are you have some questions about your period. (And you’re not alone.) Why do I have spotting between periods? Why am I bleeding on birth control? When will I get my next period after starting a new method?
Let’s explore a few commonly asked questions about birth control and your period.
Wait, does birth control stop your period?
Yes, some types of birth control can stop or delay your period, but it depends on both the person and the type of birth control. Changes to your menstrual periods are normal when on hormonal birth control.
Do IUDs stop your period? Like other hormonal methods of contraception, hormonal IUDs can cause irregular bleeding during the first several months after insertion. In some cases, some people stop bleeding altogether.4
How might birth control affect my period?
Hormonal birth control methods may alter your period. Some may increase bleeding and some may decrease it. Spotting and irregular bleeding are common side effects of hormonal birth control.
When do you get your period on birth control pills?
When taking progestin-only pills like Opill®, the most common side effect is a change in bleeding pattern. For Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs), if you are taking a 21-day pill pack, you may get your period during the fourth week when you are not taking any pills. If you have a 28-day pack with 1 week of placebo pills, you get your period during the 7 days you are taking hormone-free pills.5
Is it normal to have a late period on birth control?
Some individuals experience changes in their menstrual cycle while on birth control, which can include a late period. A late period can also signify pregnancy. If you’re experiencing a late period while on birth control, it’s recommended to take a pregnancy test or talk with your doctor.
When should I see a doctor if I’m experiencing irregular periods on the pill?
Birth control pills, including POPs (progestin-only pills), may cause irregular periods. Take a pregnancy test or talk to a doctor if your period is late after not using birth control pills as directed in the last month, if you have not had a period for 2 months, or if you think you may be pregnant.
Opill® & Your Period
Opill® is a daily birth control pill that is available over the counter. As a progestin-only pill (POP), it is estrogen-free and is 98% effective at preventing pregnancy when taken as directed. Opill® is suitable for most* people who can become pregnant. Some may experience side effects while taking Opill®, which may include changes to their period.
Does Opill® stop your period?
Some individuals may stop having periods while taking Opill®. Others may experience periods that are less or more frequent, short or longer, lighter, or heavier than before starting to take Opill®. Some spotting or bleeding between periods can also occur. Continue taking Opill® as directed even if you have changes to your period.
How might Opill® affect my period?
The most frequently reported side effect for people taking Opill® is irregular bleeding.6 In a survey of people who used Opill® during a US study, 58% said the bleeding was similar to or better than their previous hormonal contraceptive method.6 Side effects vary by individual.**
What should you do if your period is late while taking Opill®?
When used as directed, Opill® is safe and effective. The most common side effect is a change in bleeding pattern. Continue taking Opill® exactly as directed and take a pregnancy test or talk to a doctor:
- if your period is late after missing any tablets in the last month,
- if you have not had a period for 2 months,
- or if you think you might be pregnant.
Control your choices. Your contraception. Your future.
Real talk: When was the last time you felt completely in charge of your reproductive health? With Opill® you’re in control of your choices, your contraception, and your future. Opill® provides you with the control and simplicity to access effective and safe daily contraception on your terms.
When you need it, where you need it, and the ability to start and stop on your own time. Ready to take control of your contraception? We are right here with you.
*Do not use Opill® if you have or ever had breast cancer. See Opill® label for list of warnings.
**When used as directed. The most common side effects of Opill® include irregular bleeding, headaches, dizziness, nausea, increased appetite, abdominal pain, cramps, or bloating. See the Opill® Drug Facts for a full list of warnings and potential side effects.
1. Gordon, L. (2018). The IUD (for Teens) - Nemours KidsHealth. Kidshealth.org. https://kidshealth.org/en/teens/contraception-iud.html
2. Birth Control and Your Period – Your Period. (n.d.). Www.yourperiod.ca. https://www.yourperiod.ca/normal-periods/birth-control-and-your-period/
3. Emergency contraception: MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia. (2016). Medlineplus.gov. https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/007014.htm
4. Macmillan, C. (2023). Intrauterine Devices (IUDs): What Women Need to Know. Yale Medicine. https://www.yalemedicine.org/news/intrauterine-devices-iud
5. Combined Hormonal Birth Control: Pill, Patch, and Ring. (2018, March). Www.acog.org. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/combined-hormonal-birth-control-pill-patch-ring
6. Grindlay K, Key K, Zuniga C, et al. (2023). Experiences using a progestin-only pill in an over-the-counter environment in the United States: a cross-sectional survey. BMJ Sex Reprod Health, 49(1),27-34. doi:10.1136/bmjsrh-2022-201637