What Causes Breakthrough Bleeding For 18 Days After Taking Jolessa?

Posted on Wed, 18 Nov 2015

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Wed, 18 Nov 2015 Answered on

Tue, 8 Dec 2015 Last reviewed on

Question : I was recently prescribed an extended birth control called jolessa. It was a little over a month ago. Well I've been "breakthrough" bleeding for 18 days straight now, which I know can be a normal thing, but I'm also very tired and feel nauseas 24/7. I got it to help with super heavy long lasting periods, I've had a tubal so I have no worries about becoming pregnant, my question is what happens if I stop taking the birth control while breakthrough bleeding? Will I then go on to have my normal period? I just want this to stop. I can't function day to day like this. I'm on day 40 of taking these pills.

Answered by Dr. Deepti Verma (8 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Yes you can stop the pills

Detailed Answer:
Hi dear, I have gone through your question and understand your concerns.
You can stop the pills if you are having prolonged breakthrough spotting. Stopping the pills will induce your periods, which are likely due to normal periods.
Hope you found the answer helpful.
Wishing you good health.
Regards
Dr Deepti Verma

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Deepti Verma (2 minutes later)

On average how long does it take for your period to come? I have a camping trip coming up and i would rather not be bleeding in the wilderness with no restrooms! Lol

Answered by Dr. Deepti Verma (3 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
3-7 days

Detailed Answer:
Hi dear, bleeding occurs within3-7 days after stopping the pills.
Regards
Dr Deepti Verma

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Deepti Verma (23 minutes later)

What if i continue taking the pill, will the breakthrough bleeding ever stop? Its like a normal period only a little lighter.

Answered by Dr. Deepti Verma (11 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Higher dose of pills

Detailed Answer:
Hi dear,
Breakthrough bleeding will stop if you take a higher dose of pills.
I will suggest you to consult your doctor regarding these issues and get appropriate treatment.
Regards
Dr Deepti Verma

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar