Question Title: long periods/AEDs and birth control

I'm a 20 years old and actaully I have two questions. I have always had fairly normal/regular periods, but this month I've had my period for 10 days...it is very light but this is unusual for me. I was wondering, if it continues, how long should I Wait before consulting a doctor? My second questions is related to AEDS and birth control pillls. I've heard that birth control can reduce he effects of anti convulsants and vice versa. Is this correct. IS there any birth control pills that can be taken that won't effect my anti convulsant that will still work?
Amy

Dear Amy:
I am assuming from the parts of your question that you are taking birth control pills and anticonvulsant drugs.
Menstrual flow on birth control pills is often light. Anticonvulsant drugs increase the efficiency with which the liver breaks down the birth control pill. Although this is unlikely to change the effectiveness of the pill for preventing pregnancy, there is greater likelihood of funny bleeding patterns.

For women who experience problems with bleeding, a pill with a different progestin is ususally tried first and then a pill with more estrogen is tried second.

The choice of anticonvulsant therapy is dictated by the seizure disorder and managing this problem should take precedent. Other options for contraception include Depo-Provera injections, Norplant, intrauterine device, and barrier methods (condom, foam, etc.).

Keywords: Birth control pills, anticonvulsant drugs

This information is provided for education purposes and is not a medical consultation. If you have specific questions, please speak with your physician.