Ask Chat's Doc: Contraceptive pill worries

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Chloasma and the Pill

Question
I have horrible pale brown blotches on my face. My doctor says it's chloasma, caused by taking the Pill, but I've stopped the Pill and it hasn't helped!
Tanya, 26

Answer
Hormones in the Pill, or during pregnancy, stimulate your skin cells to tan. Trouble is, the effect is uneven and can look like a blotchy brown mask! Sunlight makes it worse, so stay out of the sun, use sunblock, and it should gradually fade. If not, bleaching treatment can sometimes help.

Contraceptive pill worries

Question
I stopped the pill eight months ago, to try for a baby, but haven't seen a period since. I've taken it for 10 years. Have I ruined my chances of falling pregnant?
Jaye, 29

Answer
Don't panic! It can take months for your periods to return after stopping the pill, though after six months your doctor might suggest a blood test. The length of time you've taken the pill isn't important. If your periods don't return, tablets to stimulate ovulation will usually do the trick.

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