Post-Birth Control Changes: Heart Flutters & Period Alterations - Health Forum

Question
I am a 23 year old female in good health. I was on the birth control ortho evra for about 1 year and switched to the nuva ring for about 4. I discontinued birthcontrol approx 6 months ago. (NOT in an attempt to get pregnant, my boyfriend of 6 years had a vasectomy.) Immediately after, I just feel weird before starting my period. I have heart flutters that last a couple seconds a few days before my period (every time, I don't drink caffiene). I also have a much lighter period than I had before when I was on birth control. (I think I only filled one regular tampon during an 7 hour time frame this whole menstrual cycle) Other than that, I didn't even need one. There was such little bleeding, I would just wipe it when I urinated. Is this normal for coming off birthcontrol?

Answer
Hi Lisa,
I think it's normal, but it's definitely unusual.  Most women have heavier periods when not on the pill (patch, ring).  In general when stopping birth control you return to the way your periods were before.  However, if it's been a few years, there may be changes.  During those years your periods may have changed, but you don't notice the change because the patch and ring were controlling your period.  Now you're on your own.  I don't know why your heart flutters before a period, but that's apparently how your body is reacting to your own hormones.  It doesn't mean anything is wrong either with your heart or your hormones.  It's normal that a woman's body and responses and hormones change over time.  If any of it is really bothersome I would see your doctor about it.  Otherwise, it may change again, and maybe your periods will get heavier with time.