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Real members of MyEndometriosisTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Has anyone experienced bleeding for a month after being on the POP pill for 5 months?

A MyEndometriosisTeam Member asked a question 💭
Swansea, UK

I was told by my gynecologist in February to go on the POP pill while I wait for my laparascopy to diagnose endometriosis and to have the mirena coil fitted
I am on my fith month of the POP pill this is the one you dont have a break from and since around 1st June I been bleeding. It's not heavy I have nights where I stopped then then an hour after waking in the mornings i will bleed again
I am starting to get cramping now in stomach and lower back. Went to the gp on Monday gone only to be… read more

July 4
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A MyEndometriosisTeam Member

Do I carry on with the pill see what happens after 5 months

July 4
MyEndometriosisTeam

What a frustrating situation — stuck in a waiting game while your body is clearly telling you something needs attention. You're definitely not alone in this experience.

Irregular spotting and breakthrough bleeding are actually very common side effects of the progestogen-only pill (POP), especially in the first several Show Full Answer

What a frustrating situation — stuck in a waiting game while your body is clearly telling you something needs attention. You're definitely not alone in this experience.

Irregular spotting and breakthrough bleeding are actually very common side effects of the progestogen-only pill (POP), especially in the first several months of use. Some people experience this on and off throughout their time on it. A MyEndometriosisTeam member shared a similar experience, noting that brown spotting and irregular bleeding were common after starting progesterone-based treatments, and were told irregular spotting after several months is not unusual.

The cramping in your stomach and lower back alongside the bleeding is worth keeping a close eye on. Here are some signs that would warrant going back to your GP or seeking urgent care:

- Blood clots larger than a quarter
- Bleeding so heavy you need to change a pad or tampon more than once an hour
- Bleeding lasting more than 7 days at that heavier level
- Pain that becomes severe or unmanageable Since your GP has advised finishing the pill and stopping, it may be worth asking them specifically about managing the cramping in the meantime — over-the-counter NSAIDs like ibuprofen can help reduce both cramping and bleeding, though always check with your doctor first as they can increase bleeding risk in some people.

Keep a symptom diary noting the bleeding pattern and pain levels — this can be really valuable evidence when you finally get to your laparoscopy appointment.

July 4

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