Delayed menstruation after stopping Meliane contraceptive pills?
Hello Doctor, I have been taking Marvelon birth control pills for over a year.
My last menstrual period was from July 25 to July 28.
The last time I had sexual intercourse was on August 11, during which we did not use a condom and I had external ejaculation.
If I had continued taking the pills, my period would have been expected on August 22 (I experienced breast tenderness from August 14 to August 21), but it is now late and has not arrived.
I would like to ask: (1) Will my menstrual cycle become irregular after stopping long-term birth control pills? (2) Can I start a new pack of birth control pills without waiting for my period to come? Thank you for taking the time to answer!
Y, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/22
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello Miss Y: It is advisable for you to take a urine test first.
After long-term use of contraceptive pills, it is common for menstruation to be irregular in the first or second month after stopping the medication, but it should gradually return to normal.
You should first check for pregnancy; if you are not pregnant, you can either induce menstruation or let it happen naturally.
Start taking contraceptive pills on the first day of your period, and do not take them directly without menstruation.
Reply Date: 2016/08/22
More Info
When stopping hormonal birth control methods like Meliane, it is common to experience changes in your menstrual cycle. Here’s a comprehensive response to your questions regarding menstrual changes after discontinuing the use of Meliane birth control.
1. Will my menstrual cycle become irregular after stopping long-term birth control?
Yes, it is quite common for menstrual cycles to become irregular after stopping hormonal birth control. Meliane, like other combined oral contraceptives, works by regulating hormones to prevent ovulation and manage the menstrual cycle. When you stop taking the pill, your body may take some time to readjust to its natural hormonal rhythm. This adjustment period can lead to changes in the timing, flow, and symptoms of your menstrual cycle. Some women may experience delayed periods, while others may have heavier or lighter bleeding than usual. It is important to note that these changes are typically temporary, and most women will see their cycles normalize within a few months.
2. Can I start a new pack of birth control pills without waiting for my period?
Yes, you can start a new pack of birth control pills without waiting for your period, especially if you are looking to prevent pregnancy. If you have missed your period and are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test before starting a new pack. If the test is negative, you can begin taking the new pack of pills immediately. However, if you are unsure about your pregnancy status, it is best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice. Starting a new pack without waiting for your period can help regulate your cycle and provide contraceptive protection, but it may also lead to some initial irregular bleeding as your body adjusts to the new hormones.
Additional Considerations:
- Pregnancy Testing: If you have had unprotected intercourse after stopping the pill, it is prudent to take a pregnancy test if your period is late. This will help clarify whether the missed period is due to hormonal changes or a potential pregnancy.
- Cycle Normalization: After stopping hormonal contraceptives, it may take a few cycles for your body to return to its natural rhythm. Some women may experience anovulatory cycles (cycles without ovulation) initially, which can contribute to irregular periods.
- Consulting a Healthcare Provider: If you experience significant changes in your menstrual cycle, such as prolonged absence of menstruation, very heavy bleeding, or severe pain, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms and provide guidance on managing any irregularities.
- Lifestyle Factors: Factors such as stress, weight changes, and underlying health conditions can also affect your menstrual cycle. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and stress management can support hormonal balance.
- Long-term Effects: Most women find that their menstrual cycles return to normal within three to six months after stopping hormonal birth control. However, if you have concerns about your menstrual health or fertility, discussing these with your healthcare provider can provide reassurance and guidance.
In summary, it is normal to experience irregularities in your menstrual cycle after stopping Meliane birth control. You can start a new pack of pills without waiting for your period, but it is wise to confirm that you are not pregnant first. If you have any concerns or unusual symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further assistance.
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