Spotting While on Birth Control: What to Expect

Question
I have been on birthcontrol for 10 months. This month I took some herbal medicine and I had a cold for about two weeks and I started spotting about 6 days before I am supposed to get my period. Also I haven't been taking the pills the same time everyday? Is this normal?

Answer
Lots of things can bring changes to your cycle when you are on the pill.  But it is especially problematic that you aren't taking it at the same time every day.  That is the most important thing.  If you take antibiotics you reduce the effectiveness of the contraceptive hormones.