How long after taking menstrual induction medication will menstruation begin?
Hello, doctor.
I took emergency contraceptive pills before my last menstrual period, which came on time (late June to early July).
However, this month it has been delayed for a long time.
I did have sexual intercourse in early and mid-July, but I have been using pregnancy test strips and also went to a clinic for a blood test, both of which indicated that I am not pregnant.
The doctor prescribed me a three-day course of medication to induce menstruation (taken from August 4 to August 6), but my period still hasn’t arrived.
How long after taking the medication should I expect my period to come, and if I am not pregnant, why is my period so delayed this month? My menstrual cycle has generally been regular; could this be related to the emergency contraceptive pill I took earlier? Lastly, if the blood test shows B-hCG < 0.1, does that mean I am not pregnant? Thank you, doctor, for taking the time to respond.
Nìmíng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/09
Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, after taking the medication to induce menstruation, it usually takes 3 to 7 days for your period to start.
It is unlikely that you are pregnant, so you can observe for now.
If your period does not arrive after one week, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.
Reply Date: 2016/08/09
More Info
After taking menstrual induction pills, it is common for your period to start within a few days, typically between 3 to 7 days after completing the medication. However, individual responses can vary based on several factors, including hormonal balance, stress levels, and overall health.
In your case, since you have taken the medication from August 4 to August 6 and have not yet experienced your period, it is advisable to wait a little longer, as some women may take longer to respond to the medication. If your period does not start within a week or two after completing the pills, it would be wise to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
Regarding your concerns about the delay in your menstrual cycle, there are several potential reasons for this. The use of emergency contraception (the "morning-after pill") can cause temporary hormonal imbalances, which may lead to irregularities in your menstrual cycle. This is particularly true if you took the emergency contraceptive pill close to your expected period, as it can delay ovulation and subsequently affect the timing of your period.
Additionally, stress, changes in weight, and other lifestyle factors can also contribute to menstrual irregularities. If you have been experiencing significant stress or changes in your routine, this could be a contributing factor to your delayed period.
As for the blood test result showing B-hCG levels less than 0.1, this is indeed indicative of no pregnancy. B-hCG is the hormone detected in pregnancy tests, and levels below 5 mIU/mL are generally considered negative for pregnancy. Therefore, your test results suggest that you are not pregnant, which is reassuring.
If your period does not arrive after a reasonable waiting period following the induction pills, or if you experience any unusual symptoms such as severe pain or heavy bleeding, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may want to conduct further tests to rule out any underlying conditions that could be affecting your menstrual cycle, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid issues.
In summary, after taking menstrual induction pills, it is typical for your period to start within a few days to a week. If it does not arrive within a reasonable timeframe, consider consulting your healthcare provider for further evaluation. Your B-hCG test results indicate that you are not pregnant, but other factors may be contributing to your delayed period. Regular follow-ups and open communication with your healthcare provider are crucial for managing your menstrual health effectively.
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