Period with brown blood and no red blood
Question: About 6 months ago I changed birth control pills, from Orth Tri Cyc to Orth Tri Cyc Lo. Since then I have not had any spotting or abnormal cramping. Although, there is only a very small amount of brown blood when I have my period no red blood at all. Could there be a medical problem if I do not shed any red blood during my periods?
Answer: Withdrawal bleeding (which is a "period" for oral contraceptive users) can vary in color (i.e. be more brown than red) and length. Even if it only lasts one day, it is still considered withdrawal bleeding. When a woman is taking oral contraceptives, the shedding of her uterine lining is usually different than if she was not taking oral contraceptives because of the difference in hormones and the lack of ovulation. If you are concerned about your withdrawal bleeding, you should consult with a health care provider.
— February 18, 2006