Breakthrough bleeding is a common side effect of hormonal contraception, such as birth control pills, patches, and rings. It is defined as vaginal bleeding or spotting that occurs between scheduled periods. Breakthrough bleeding can be caused by a variety of factors, including changes in hormone levels, stress, and certain medications.
While breakthrough bleeding is usually not a cause for concern, it can be bothersome and interfere with daily activities. There are a number of things that can be done to avoid breakthrough bleeding, including: