Spotting and irregularity coming off Pill
8 January, 2006
Question:I got married about four months ago and have been having problems coming off the pill. Untill now my period has been coming late (50 and 37 days). The past three days I have seen spotting on my underwear, starting exactly three weeks after my period. Yesterday I saw that the spotting had become dark brown with slight traces of blood. My husband and I have refrained from doing anything (besides normal touching).
What does this mean? Am I in nidda? My period usually doesnt spot long before it comes. Also physically I don't feel like 'i have or am getting my period. I'm afraid it's something else… What should I do?
Answer:Mazal tov on your recent marriage!
Whether or not you are in niddah depends on a number of factors. If your staining was unaccompanied by a hargashah and was either on colored underwear or clearly smaller than a gris, then you are not niddah. If it was on a white surface or might have been larger, then it should be taken to a rabbi for evaluation. Regardless, you should continue to abstain from relations until you clarify that the staining has stopped. We typically recommend twenty-four hours. Please see our article on staining for a detailed explanation of the concepts outlined here.
Going off the pill can lead to staining as the body must adjust back to its natural hormonal environment. It typically can take two cycles to get back to normal. However, if you remain concerned, we suggest you contact your health care provider for a consultation.
Please do not hesitate to write back with any further questions.
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