How do we know that our birth control pill is working for us?

Question

I have been taking the pill for 1.5 years (Marvelon). I had spotting during the month and my "period" came a little early. I wonder if it is still effective if this bleeding could be a sign of pregnancy?

Alexandre Chagnon · Accepted Answer

Hello, It can happen that there are hormonal changes in a woman that cause the pill to not be as effective. Normally, for menstrual cycle control, a pill is said to be effective when there is no spotting between periods and the period comes about every 28 days. Did you forget to take any pills? Forgetting to take the birth control pill could cause these kinds of symptoms. The fact that you have had your period indicates that you are probably not pregnant. Still, check to see if you are indeed having your next period. If you ever see that you have spotting every month and are no longer regular with your periods despite taking your birth control pill, you may want to talk to your doctor or pharmacist. Hopefully this answers your question! Jonathan Fournier, pharmacy student, under the supervision of Alexandre Chagnon, pharmacist