I tried searching the forums, and I found a lot of useful information, but nothing quite answered my questions.
I've been considering going on some form of birth control pill now that my boyfriend of 5 years is moving in with me and I'm commited to a 4-5 year graduate program. In doing some research on the pills available, I came up with a few questions.
My cycle seems longer than most women's; I usually go 33 days instead of the normal 28. Also, my period is rather short and light, no longer than 4 days. Other than that, my cycles are pretty consistant and regular. I've only had one pelvic exam when I was a teen and prior to becoming sexually active (I am now 22). I'm curious though, if taking a pill designed for a 28-day cycle will cause physiological problems for me. I do plan to go to the doctors and discuss all this with him/her, but I'd like to know what you think.
Is my cycle abnormally long? And would taking the pill really mess up my natural system?
Thanks for any advice - Cat
There are many variables here. The pill makes many women's periods lighter. You may end up with a very light flow. I imagine you would welcome that. Your cycle is longer than most but not "abnormal." The pill will readjust your period to 28 days. You will not "really mess up your system" but you may have a bit of a time adapting. I have had patients with "longer" cycles adjust very quickly.
If you considered the ring, you may discuss with the doctor whether it could be adviseable to go an extra day or two. This would come closer to your present cycle and the ring puts less hormone in your system.
You certainly do not present a medical problem. We prescribe all the time for women with different length periods and most adapt quite well.