Skip to main content

Is this normal - spotting and stomach cramps from starting birth control pills?

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on April 8, 2024.

I have been taking the birth control Sprintec for about two months now. The first two weeks I was completely fine, no side effects at all. Then I started light spotting and it has only grown worse from there. I have bled everyday and now it is like my regular period. I also get terrible cramps on and off throughout the day. Is this because I have never taken birth control before? Or should I call and ask to change BC?

Official answer

by Drugs.com

You can get irregular bleeding/cycles, spotting for the first three months when you start a new birth control pill. If the irregular cycles continue after three months then please see your doctor. Cramping is a common side effect.

Click on these links for more information:
https://www.drugs.com/mtm/sprintec.html

https://www.drugs.com/comments/ethinyl-estradiol-norgestimate/sprintec.html

Read next

Opill is a progestin-only pill, which makes it different from other birth control pills that contain both estrogen and a progestin (such as Yaz, Junel FE, Lutera, or Sprintec) although you can get progestin-only pills (such as Cerazette, errin, and Heather) on prescription. Progestin-only pills are often called mini-pills, so Opill is a type of mini-pill. Continue reading

Birth control refers to any behavioral, hormonal, spermicidal, or physical device that is used to prevent pregnancy. Unfortunately for most, human error ("Oops the condom broke", or "I forgot to take my pill") is the reason most forms of birth control (also called contraception) fail; and this has resulted in most manufacturers rating their product's effectiveness on a dual scale: perfect use (PU) and typical use (TU). Continue reading

If you have had to take Plan B as an emergency contraceptive, you may be wondering if it has worked. While research shows it has an efficacy rate of 89% when used correctly, how easy is it to tell if it has worked for you? The easiest way to know that it hasn’t worked are a missed period and a positive pregnancy test. Continue reading

Related medical questions

Drug information

Related support groups

Medical Disclaimer