Menstrual Issues: Hormonal Effects and Symptoms Explained - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Menstrual issues


Hello, doctor.
I have two questions.
Last month, I took progesterone and used a pregnancy test (urine test stick).
Will this affect the result? The result was negative, and after stopping the medication to induce menstruation, I got my period three days later, which seemed normal.
Since July 25th, I haven't had my period yet, and last month I didn't have it for a whole month until I took the medication to induce menstruation.
However, these past few days, I've been feeling some pain in my lower abdomen, and a few days ago, my discharge had brownish secretions and blood.
What does this indicate?

A, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/27

Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello Ms.
A: You may be experiencing menstrual irregularities, which could be causing your periods to be late frequently.
Recently, if you've been feeling some pain in your lower abdomen and noticing brownish discharge, it could also be a sign that your period is approaching.
It's best to wait a little longer and not worry too much.
If you haven't taken a urine test this time, it would be advisable to do so for confirmation.

Reply Date: 2016/08/27

More Info


Understanding menstrual issues can be complex, especially when hormonal treatments are involved. Let's break down your concerns regarding the use of progesterone (黄体素), the impact on pregnancy tests, and the symptoms you are experiencing.

First, regarding your question about whether taking progesterone affects the results of a pregnancy test: Generally, progesterone itself does not interfere with urine pregnancy tests. These tests work by detecting the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is produced during pregnancy. However, if you were to take a pregnancy test while on progesterone, it is crucial to ensure that you are testing at the right time—ideally after a missed period. If you tested negative while on progesterone and subsequently had a normal menstrual period after stopping the medication, it is likely that you were not pregnant.

Now, concerning your menstrual cycle: It is not uncommon for women to experience irregularities in their menstrual cycles, especially after taking hormonal medications like progesterone or menstrual induction pills (催经丸). These medications can sometimes cause temporary changes in your cycle, leading to delayed periods or changes in flow. The fact that you experienced a normal period after stopping the medication suggests that your body is responding to the hormonal changes, but it can take some time for your cycle to regulate itself.

The symptoms you are currently experiencing, such as lower abdominal pain and brownish discharge with blood, can be attributed to several factors. Brown discharge often indicates old blood that is being expelled from the body, which can occur at the beginning or end of a menstrual period. It can also happen between periods, especially if your cycle is still adjusting after hormonal treatment. The abdominal pain could be related to ovulation, menstrual cramps, or even hormonal fluctuations.

However, if the pain is severe or if you notice any other concerning symptoms—such as heavy bleeding, fever, or unusual discharge—it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider. They can perform a thorough evaluation to rule out any underlying issues, such as ovarian cysts, fibroids, or infections, which can also cause similar symptoms.

In summary, while hormonal treatments can temporarily disrupt your menstrual cycle, it is essential to monitor your symptoms and seek medical advice if you have concerns. Your body may need some time to adjust after stopping hormonal medications, and it is not unusual to experience some irregularities during this period. If your symptoms persist or worsen, please reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management.

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