Dear Betty,

I've been on birth control (pills) for about a year and I just changed brands.  I'm into the pack by a week and a half and starting to spot a lot.  Is this normal?  The spotting is more of a dark brown color.

Spotting is common when switching OCPs (oral contraceptives) for the first one to two months.  It does not mean that you should stop taking your pills. Continue to take your pills consistently to prevent pregnancy. The dark brown color can be very normal as can a pinkish brown color.

Other causes of spotting can be taking pills late, missed pills, and stress.

If your spotting continues after the next cycle of OCPs, or if you have any other concerns, make an appointment with the SHCC or your health care provider for a consult.