Nishmat's Women’s Health and HalachaIn memory of Chaya Mirel bat R' Avraham

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Staining on pill while nursing

4 January, 2006

Question:

I gave birth three months ago, started taking a birth control pill (after consultation with a rabbi) a little more than one month ago. Until today I have been in this terrible cycle and would like to ask advice about the possible causes and what I can do to rectify the problem. I am able to get to day six of shiva nekiim, at which time (four times to date) I get bad stains / start bleeding, and have to start the cycle all over again three days later. I am breastfeeding. Please advise. Thank you so much for the holy work that you do.


Answer:

Mazal tov on the birth of your child! 

We're sorry to hear of your staining difficulties.

Staining is fairly common on the progestin-only pill, which is commonly prescribed to nursing mothers.  It may help reduce staining to take the pill at the same time every day.  Additionally, you should consult your doctor about taking a half pill every twelve hours.  These measures sometimes help because they help maintain an even level of hormones in your body throughout the day.

It is common for staining to last up to two cycles.  By that point, most women adjust to the new hormonal environment.  Many cease to bleed at all, not even once a month!  So we suggest, assuming your doctor agrees, that you try to stay on this pill for one to two more cycles.

It is also very important to bring any stains or bedikah cloths to a rabbi for evaluation, prior to deciding that they are problematic.  It may also prove worthwhile to review our article on staining.  You may also wish to consult with your rabbi about the possibility of reducing the number of required bedikot until this problem is resolved.


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