Progesterone Use for Irregular Menstrual Cycles: What to Expect

Progesterone regulation of the menstrual cycle?

Due to irregular menstrual cycles, the doctor prescribed progesterone for menstrual regulation, to be taken one pill a day for 18 days.
However, after taking the medication for only ten days, I experienced lower abdominal pain and bleeding (dark in color), resembling menstruation.
What could be the reason for this? Should I continue taking the progesterone?

Dà yú, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/26

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Due to irregular menstruation, the doctor prescribed progesterone to regulate the cycle, taking one pill a day for 18 days.
However, after taking the medication for only ten days, there was lower abdominal pain and bleeding (dark in color), resembling menstruation.

1.
What is the reason for this?
Answer: Progesterone is used to regulate the menstrual cycle, and it is normal to experience withdrawal bleeding after taking it for ten days.
2.
Should progesterone still be taken?
Answer: No, it is not necessary to continue taking it.

Reply Date: 2017/03/26

More Info

Progesterone, commonly prescribed for managing irregular menstrual cycles, plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle and supporting pregnancy. It is a hormone produced by the ovaries, particularly after ovulation, and is essential for preparing the uterine lining for a potential pregnancy. When a woman has irregular menstrual cycles, it can often be attributed to hormonal imbalances, and progesterone supplementation can help restore normalcy.

In your case, you mentioned that you were prescribed progesterone for 18 days, taking one pill daily. However, you only took the medication for ten days before experiencing lower abdominal pain and dark-colored bleeding, resembling a menstrual period. This situation raises several considerations.

Firstly, the bleeding you experienced could be a result of the hormonal changes induced by the progesterone. When progesterone is administered, it can lead to a withdrawal bleed once the hormone levels drop, which typically occurs after stopping the medication. This bleeding can sometimes be darker in color, as it may consist of older blood that has taken longer to exit the uterus. The abdominal pain could also be associated with this hormonal adjustment or could indicate other underlying issues, such as uterine contractions or even an ovarian cyst.

Regarding whether you should continue taking the progesterone, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider. They can assess your symptoms, perform any necessary examinations, and determine if continuing the medication is appropriate. If the bleeding is indeed a withdrawal bleed, your doctor may suggest completing the prescribed course. However, if there are concerns about the nature of the bleeding or if it is accompanied by severe pain, further evaluation may be warranted.

It is also important to consider that while progesterone can help regulate menstrual cycles, it is not a one-size-fits-all solution. The underlying cause of your irregular cycles should be investigated, which may include hormonal tests, imaging studies, or other evaluations to rule out conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), fibroids, or endometriosis.

In summary, while progesterone can be effective in managing irregular menstrual cycles, the symptoms you are experiencing warrant a discussion with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current situation. Remember, it is crucial to communicate any side effects or concerns you have while on medication, as this will help your doctor make the best decisions for your health.

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