Missed Period After Symptoms: Could Herbal Medicine Be the Cause?

There are signs that menstruation is about to start, but it hasn't occurred?

Hello doctor, I would like to ask about my situation.
My last menstrual period started on December 5th, and I had a car accident on December 19th, after which I saw a doctor and took traditional Chinese medicine.
During this time, I had sexual intercourse.
My menstrual cycle is irregular, and around January 8th, I started to feel mild menstrual cramps, but there are no other unusual symptoms.
However, my period has not arrived yet.
I would like to know if the traditional Chinese medicine could be related to the delay in my menstrual cycle.
Is there a high chance of pregnancy?

An An, 0~9 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/01/12

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, if you are wondering whether you are pregnant, it's best to take precautions beforehand.
You should not rely on the calendar method for safe periods.
If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2017/01/12

More Info

It's understandable to be concerned about missed periods, especially after experiencing symptoms and taking herbal medicine. Let's break down the potential causes and implications of your situation.

Firstly, it's important to recognize that missed periods can be influenced by various factors, including stress, hormonal changes, lifestyle modifications, and, indeed, the use of herbal medicine. Herbal remedies can have a significant impact on the body's hormonal balance, which may lead to changes in menstrual cycles. Some herbs are known to affect estrogen and progesterone levels, potentially delaying ovulation or menstruation. For instance, certain herbs like ginseng and licorice root can influence hormone levels, while others may have a more direct effect on the menstrual cycle.

In your case, since you mentioned that you started taking herbal medicine after a car accident on December 19, it's plausible that the herbs could be contributing to your delayed period. Additionally, the stress from the accident, along with any physical or emotional trauma, can also disrupt your menstrual cycle. Stress is known to affect the hypothalamus, which regulates the hormones responsible for menstruation.

Regarding the possibility of pregnancy, if you have had unprotected sexual intercourse during your fertile window, there is a chance of conception. The timing of ovulation can vary, and if you ovulated later than usual due to the factors mentioned, it could lead to a delayed period. If your menstrual cycle is irregular, it may be more challenging to pinpoint ovulation, increasing the uncertainty about pregnancy.

To determine if you are pregnant, the most reliable method is to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are designed to detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in your urine, which is produced after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. For the most accurate results, it's best to wait until at least the first day of your missed period to take the test.

If the test is negative and your period still does not arrive, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional. They can provide further evaluation and may suggest blood tests to check hormone levels or other underlying issues that could be affecting your menstrual cycle.

In summary, while herbal medicine could potentially influence your menstrual cycle, other factors such as stress and hormonal fluctuations should also be considered. If pregnancy is a concern, taking a home pregnancy test is a prudent step. Regardless of the outcome, if your period does not resume or if you experience any other concerning symptoms, seeking medical advice is essential for your overall health and well-being.

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