I started my fresh pack of contraceptive pills 9 days ago. After taking them for 6 days, i began to bleed, it is a lot darker than normal, but i am not experiencing any pain. It is not heavy at all. Could you tell me what this could be and if this is normal as i am quite worried. I am 19 years old.

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Dr. Joshua’s Answer:

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There’s no need to be overly worried. Breakthrough bleeding is fairly common, and is usually caused by forgetting to take a pill, or taking them at different times during the day.

Please see this patient information article by the American Academy of Family Physicians - the issue is very clearly explained. Follow the instructions given. If you are still concerned after reading that, call your doctor.