Menstruation lasting more than 10 days?
Hello doctor, my menstrual cycle has been regular, but this time I had very light flow for the first three days (almost no need for sanitary pads), and then it increased in the following days.
What used to last about a week has now extended to the 10th day.
I would like to know if there is any problem.
I took birth control pills last month, starting before my last period.
Could this be related to the birth control pills?
melody41, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/04/13
Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello Ms.
Melody41: Your menstrual cycle this time is different from before, which may be caused by the discontinuation of birth control pills.
Generally, after stopping birth control, the first or second menstrual period may be irregular.
It is recommended that you wait another month or two to see if things normalize, as most people find their menstrual cycle returns to normal.
Reply Date: 2017/04/13
More Info
Prolonged menstrual bleeding, also known as menorrhagia, can indeed be influenced by various factors, including the use of birth control methods such as hormonal contraceptives. In your case, since you mentioned that you started taking birth control pills before your last menstrual cycle, it is possible that this could be contributing to the changes you are experiencing in your menstrual pattern.
Hormonal contraceptives work by regulating the hormones that control the menstrual cycle. When you first start taking birth control pills, your body may take some time to adjust to the new hormone levels. This adjustment period can lead to irregular bleeding patterns, including prolonged bleeding or spotting between periods. It is not uncommon for women to experience changes in their menstrual cycles during the first few months of starting hormonal birth control. Some may experience lighter periods, while others may have heavier or prolonged bleeding.
In your situation, the initial days of light bleeding followed by an increase in flow could be a result of your body adjusting to the hormonal changes induced by the birth control pills. However, if the bleeding persists beyond the expected duration of your period, or if you experience any other concerning symptoms such as severe pain, dizziness, or passing large clots, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms, perform necessary examinations, and determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed.
Other potential causes of prolonged menstrual bleeding can include:
1. Uterine Fibroids: Noncancerous growths in the uterus that can cause heavy bleeding.
2. Endometrial Polyps: Growths on the lining of the uterus that can lead to irregular bleeding.
3. Hormonal Imbalances: Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can disrupt normal hormone levels and lead to prolonged bleeding.
4. Thyroid Disorders: An underactive or overactive thyroid can affect menstrual cycles.
5. Coagulation Disorders: Conditions that affect blood clotting can lead to heavier and prolonged menstrual bleeding.
If you suspect that your birth control method is causing these changes, you may want to discuss alternative contraceptive options with your healthcare provider. There are various forms of birth control available, including non-hormonal methods, that may be more suitable for your needs and may not affect your menstrual cycle in the same way.
In summary, while it is possible that the birth control pills are contributing to your prolonged menstrual bleeding, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If the bleeding continues beyond 10 days or if you have any other concerning symptoms, please seek medical advice. Your healthcare provider can help determine the cause of your symptoms and recommend appropriate treatment options to manage your menstrual health effectively.
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