Delayed Menstruation After D&C: What to Expect - Obstetrics and Gynecology

Share to:

Experiencing amenorrhea after undergoing a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure?


Hello, I had an abortion in mid-July and have not had my period since then.
I have returned for follow-up visits twice, and the doctor mentioned that my endometrium is thin.
I was prescribed medication to induce menstruation, first for four days and then for seven days, but my period still did not come.
Yesterday, I went back for another check-up, had an ultrasound (and blood tests), but the doctor did not provide much explanation.
Instead, they prescribed me 21 days of Estrogen pills and instructed me to take them until the 15th day, then add Provera.
The doctor said this would induce my menstruation, and I should return for a follow-up to review the results after my period.
I would like to know if this is just a simple menstrual regulation?

amy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/10/02

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, it is possible that adhesions caused by a previous abortion are preventing your menstrual flow.
It is advisable to consult your obstetrician-gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/10/02

More Info


After undergoing a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure, it is not uncommon for women to experience delayed menstruation. The D&C procedure, often performed after a miscarriage or for other medical reasons, can temporarily disrupt the normal hormonal balance and the menstrual cycle. In your case, it has been several months since the procedure, and despite taking medications to induce menstruation, you have not yet had your period.

The medications prescribed by your doctor, such as the 21-day course of Yisde (a form of hormonal therapy) followed by Provera (a progestin), are indeed aimed at regulating your menstrual cycle. Yisde is typically used to provide estrogen, which helps to build up the uterine lining, while Provera is used to induce a withdrawal bleed, mimicking the natural menstrual cycle. This approach is common in cases where the menstrual cycle has been disrupted, as it helps to re-establish regularity.

It is important to understand that the absence of menstruation after a D&C can be due to several factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, changes in body weight, or even underlying medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The thin endometrial lining observed during your follow-up visits may indicate that your body has not yet fully recovered from the hormonal changes caused by the D&C.

The medications you are taking are designed to stimulate the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) and promote the onset of menstruation. It is not merely a matter of inducing a period; it is also about restoring hormonal balance and ensuring that your body is functioning properly. The goal is to help your body transition back to a regular menstrual cycle, which may take some time, especially after a significant procedure like a D&C.

If you do not experience menstruation after completing the prescribed course of medication, it is essential to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may consider further evaluation to rule out any underlying issues that could be contributing to the delayed menstruation. This could include additional blood tests to check hormone levels, imaging studies, or other assessments as needed.

In summary, the treatment you are receiving is aimed at regulating your menstrual cycle and addressing the hormonal imbalances that may have resulted from the D&C. It is a standard approach, and while it may take some time for your body to respond, it is crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider throughout this process. If you have any concerns or experience unusual symptoms, do not hesitate to reach out for further guidance. Your health and well-being are of utmost importance, and your doctor is there to support you through this recovery phase.

Similar Q&A

Post-D&C Pregnancy Concerns: Delayed Period and Symptoms Explained

Hello Doctor: I would like to inquire about my situation. On March 26, I underwent a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure due to a missed heartbeat at 7 weeks of pregnancy. My first menstrual period after the surgery came on May 15. However, my menstrual cycle is usually qu...


Dr. Cai Yonglong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
After an abortion, menstruation may be slightly irregular, and ovulation cannot be determined, which often leads to confusion with pregnancy. It is advisable to visit a gynecology clinic for examination.

[Read More] Post-D&C Pregnancy Concerns: Delayed Period and Symptoms Explained


Understanding Menstrual Cycle and Pregnancy Risks After D&C Procedure

Hello, doctor. I confirmed my pregnancy at the beginning of October, but on the night of November 19th, I experienced sudden heavy bleeding. I underwent a dilation and curettage (D&C) that same day. I would like to know when I can expect my next menstrual cycle to occur. Addi...


Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello! Typically, the next menstrual period may be delayed by 1 to 2 weeks, so the time for resuming ovulation is generally around 2 to 3 weeks later. However, if it exceeds this timeframe, the ovaries may resume ovulation, which could lead to pregnancy. If it has been 2 to 3 wee...

[Read More] Understanding Menstrual Cycle and Pregnancy Risks After D&C Procedure


Understanding Delayed Menstruation: Causes and Concerns for Women

From June 10 to 14, I had my menstrual period. During this time, I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend several times. On June 26, I experienced bleeding and went to see a doctor, who diagnosed it as ovulatory bleeding. My next expected period was from July 11 to 15, but it d...


Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
From June 10 to June 14, I had my menstrual period. During this time, I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend several times. On June 26, I experienced bleeding and went to see a doctor, who diagnosed it as ovulatory bleeding. My next expected period was from July 11 to July 15...

[Read More] Understanding Delayed Menstruation: Causes and Concerns for Women


Understanding D&C Procedures: What to Expect After Multiple Surgeries

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about my situation. I have had one medical abortion and four dilation and curettage (D&C) procedures, with the most recent two occurring in July 2003 and January 2004. Less than six months after the last procedure, I became pregnant again, r...


Dr. Wei Fumao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Frequent scraping may have caused adhesions in the uterus, resulting in reduced menstrual flow. The insertion of an intrauterine device (IUD) can help reduce adhesions and potentially increase menstrual volume.

[Read More] Understanding D&C Procedures: What to Expect After Multiple Surgeries


Related FAQ

Delayed Menstruation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Medication To Delay Menstruation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

First Menstruation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Due Date

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Menstrual Cramps

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Menstrual Regulation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Post-Coital Bleeding

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Medication To Induce Menstruation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Ovulation Period

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Endometrial Abnormalities

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)