Birth Control Methods: Birth Control Pills / Question
Published: June 12, 2001
Dear TeenHealthFX,
I am on my fourth month of the pill. I've gotten my period every month, but this month (the third time I've gotten my period) it was a lot different than the other two times. It was very light and only lasted about a day. Is it normal for this to happen? I've taken the pill perfectly? do I have anything to be worried about? And also-while on the pill will a home pregnancy test be able to accurately tell if you're pregnant? Thanks.
Signed: 4th Month On The Pill, Light Period
Dear 4th Month On The Pill, Light Period,
What you are experiencing is normal. For most women who take the pill, their menstruation is usually lighter, shorter and less painful. Sometimes your flow may be very slight or you may miss a period. If this happens and you have missed pills or started your pack late, then you should have a pregnancy test.
Missing a period when you have not missed a pill does not automatically mean you are pregnant. This can happen when you have been taking the pill for a long time or you have been taking progestin-only pills. However, if you miss two periods in a row you should consult with your doctor and have a pregnancy test.
Home pregnancy tests can be very accurate if used correctly. If you do not wait the proper amount of time following ovulation or fail to follow the directions, you could get a negative result when you are actually pregnant.
Signed: TeenHealthFX
In the 
