Breakthrough bleeding is bleeding between regular menstrual cycles. The bleeding is usually light, often referred to as "spotting." Breakthrough bleeding is most commonly seen as a side-effect of oral contraceptives and other forms of hormonal contraception. It is common when a woman first begins taking oral contraceptives or changes from one particular oral contraceptive to another. When this is the case it usually resolves within three cycles.
Last updated: 05-21-2005 10:53:20