Effects of Isoflavones on Young Women: Risks and Concerns

Q: Effects of Isoflavones on Young Women: Risks and Concerns

Hello, the questioner： There is a possibility of pregnancy even if ejaculation has not occurred, as pre-ejaculatory fluid may contain sperm. <br>It is advisable to check for pregnancy if your period is more than a week late. <br>The supplementation of female hormones should ideal

What are the effects of consuming isoflavones on the body?

My mom bought me isoflavones, and after taking them for about a month, I found out online that they are typically taken by menopausal women, but I'm only 14 years old.
I heard that I shouldn't take them.
I used to have very regular periods, but now my period is several days late.
I had sexual intercourse on 8/22 and 8/30.
On 8/22, I didn't use a condom for a short time, but then I put one on.
On 8/30, the condom accidentally broke, but I quickly used my hand to remove it and rinsed it off.
What is the likelihood of pregnancy? My last period started on 7/25, so I should have gotten my period by now.
Could the isoflavones be affecting my body? On 8/30, I didn't know that a pregnancy test taken that day might not be accurate, and it showed negative.
I bought another test and plan to use my first morning urine tomorrow (9/4).
If the result is negative, can I feel reassured?

yu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/09/03

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the questioner: There is a possibility of pregnancy even if ejaculation has not occurred, as pre-ejaculatory fluid may contain sperm.
It is advisable to check for pregnancy if your period is more than a week late.
The supplementation of female hormones should ideally be evaluated by a physician before determining its necessity.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Chang.

Reply Date: 2016/09/03

More Info

Isoflavones, which are plant-derived compounds with estrogen-like properties, are often marketed as supplements for various health benefits, including relief from menopausal symptoms. However, their use in young women, particularly those as young as 14, raises several concerns.

Firstly, it is essential to understand that isoflavones can mimic estrogen in the body. For young women who are still developing, introducing additional estrogen-like compounds can potentially disrupt the natural hormonal balance. This disruption may lead to irregular menstrual cycles, as you have experienced. The fact that your menstrual period has been delayed could be attributed to the isoflavones, especially if you were previously regular. Hormonal fluctuations can affect the timing of ovulation and menstruation, leading to delays.

Regarding your sexual activity and the concerns about pregnancy, it is crucial to consider the timing of your menstrual cycle. If your last period started on July 25 and you had unprotected intercourse on August 22 and 30, there is a possibility of pregnancy, particularly if you were close to ovulation during those dates. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for several days, so if ovulation occurred shortly after your sexual encounters, there could be a risk of conception.

Using emergency contraception (like Plan B) is an option if you are concerned about the risk of pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. However, it is important to note that emergency contraception is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex.

As for your pregnancy test, testing with first-morning urine is generally the most accurate method, as it contains the highest concentration of the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) if pregnancy has occurred. If your test shows a negative result, it is a good indication that you are not pregnant, especially if taken after a missed period. However, if you continue to experience delays in your menstrual cycle, it may be wise to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, while isoflavones may offer benefits for menopausal women, their use in younger individuals should be approached with caution due to potential hormonal effects. If you have concerns about your menstrual cycle or the possibility of pregnancy, it is advisable to speak with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance and support. Additionally, if you are considering continuing the use of isoflavones or any other supplements, discussing this with a doctor is essential to ensure they are appropriate for your age and health status.

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