Can taking the pill back to back cause spotting

[C1239]

I think I’m on about my seventh / eight month of taking the pill back to back and today I’ve noticed what I think is a tiny bit of spotting. I could’ve easily missed it tbh, without being gross I just happened to look and see it on the paper after I wiped. Not had this before so a bit freaked out, could it be caused by taking the pill back to back for so long? Previously I would take a break after 5 or so packs so I’m not sure if this is normal and ok or if I should be worried?

Yes it can when you have taken it for a long time. Has happened to me. Have a break this month and it kind of resets it and you can then go a longer time again. I tend to go 5 months max and then have a break so it doesn't happen.

Have a read of the instruction leaflet in the box, it should say that it's normal.

I started spotting by about month 4 so you’ve done better than me!

As above, you’ll need to take a seven day break and then you should be able to start again.

And is it right that you can take a 4 day break now or should it be 7? Do I have to wait to the end of my current pack? Are you pretty sure it’s going to be due to this or should I call the GP to be sure? (I am a bit of a worrier)

I dont think you have to have a break to reset anything because of a small bit of spotting. Id discuss it with your doctor, and do some deep research on why it is thought women 'need' to bleed, outside of trying to get pregnant

It's likely to be taking the pill back to back that's caused it. Look into breakthrough bleeding.

Maybe have a short break of up to 7 days and then start again

Found this info online:

What happens if I get bleeding while taking the pill continuously?

➢ Irregular bleeding and/or ’spotting’ during the first months of continuous pill-taking can occur,

but most women find this becomes acceptable as it lessens over time.
➢ If the bleeding is troublesome to you, e.g. by continuing for more than a few days, and has not

settled after at least a month since you first started the pill: stop taking tablets for just 4 days.
No need to contact the surgery or clinic first.

Also:
o Unless you also missed other tablets for any reason in the previous week, no need to take extra precautions when you take a break like that.
o Then restart your pill taking the correct pill for that day, leaving out the 4 unused pills.

Continue as before. If you find this 4-day break does not stop or improve the bleeding, seek
advice from your surgery/clinic in case you need a check-up to exclude other causes of bleeding

e.g. Chlamydia.

Also this:

www.devonsexualhealth.nhs.uk/combined-pill-taking-a-different-approach-to-make-this-method-work-best-for-you/