Unusually Long Period

[kbearyz]

I am a 24 yr old female that up until this recently has had very regular cycles. A few months ago, I only spotted for a for a couple of days and then became regular again. But this month is very unusual. My periods normally only last 3-4 days at the most. However, this month I am sitting at 14 days and still bleeding. For the first few days, it was just like a normal period (which aren't really heavy anyway) and had to use tampons. But after about day 4 it became light enough that I haven't had to use a tampon since. I am concerned about it because this is not normal for me. What could be the cause of this and what do I need to do?

[kbearyz]

I forgot to mention that I have also recently stopped taking my birth control pills. I have been off of them for just over a month now. Could this have something to do with it?

[Dr. Joshua]

Good thing you mentioned the pills! Having recently stopped the pills is by far the most likely reason for this spotting. Irregular periods are common in young women, and hormone pills often add to these irregularities. If things don't settle down, make an appointment with a gynecologist.