Postpartum Period Irregularities: Understanding Bleeding After Pregnancy & Birth Control

Question
Hi, I have had 2 children in the past 2 years.My youngest is 7 1/2 months and i stopped breastfeeding about 2 1/2 months ago and started on the pill,and about 6 pills into my 3rd pack of bc pills i started having period like symptoms along with some bleeding. Is this my first period after 2 years or something else? its been about 4 days and im still bleeding.If it is a period,why in the middle of a pack of pills?
Thanks

Answer
Often, when you stop nursing, your periods can be irregular for up to a year after you stop nursing. Usually, taking birth control pills will eventually regulate your cycle to one of exactly 28 days, but that may take some time. If you are having breakthrough bleeding after only 6 pills, the pills may not be stong enough. If you continue to bleed for longer than 14 days, consult your gynecologist and discuss trying a different pill.