Are you not supposed to get a period while on the pill?

While on the birth control pill, you may experience what is commonly referred to as "withdrawal bleeding" or "breakthrough bleeding." They mimic periods, but they aren't true menstrual cycles like you would have if you weren't taking hormonal contraception.

Birth control pills that contain both estrogen and progestin (combination pills) work by preventing ovulation and thickening the cervical mucus to prevent sperm from reaching the egg. They also thin the lining of the uterus, which is what normally sheds each month during menstruation.

When you stop taking the active pills during the pill-free week (or take placebo pills, if your pack contains them), the hormone levels in your body drop. This can cause the uterine lining to shed, resulting in a withdrawal bleed.

However, not all individuals on birth control pills experience regular or predictable withdrawal bleeding. Some may have lighter bleeding or spotting, while others may not have any bleeding at all. The absence of bleeding is not uncommon and does not necessarily mean that the birth control pill is not working. As long as you're taking the pills as prescribed and haven't missed any, you are protected against pregnancy.

Consult with your doctor if you have concerns or questions about your bleeding patterns or any other side effects while on the pill.