Missed Period for Two Months: Brown Discharge After Taking Menstrual Inducers

Menstruation has not occurred for two months, and taking menstrual induction medication has resulted in brown discharge?

My menstrual cycle has always been irregular, but I always get my period.
The last time I had it was on June 16, and I haven't had it since.
I had unprotected intercourse on July 23 and went to see a gynecologist on August 5 for a pregnancy test, which came back negative.
The doctor mentioned that my endometrium was thickened and prescribed medication to induce menstruation.
However, after researching, I found that taking this medication could potentially lead to birth defects if I were pregnant.
On August 8, I took another pregnancy test, which was also negative.
I followed the doctor's advice and finished the medication.
On August 14, I noticed a small amount of brown discharge, which I read could be a false period.
Is it possible that I could be pregnant? Did I test too early, or could there be an underlying health issue? #SeekingAdvice Thank you! 😁😁😁

Yaping, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/14

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the factors that can affect the menstrual cycle or cause intermenstrual bleeding are numerous, including age, environment, lifestyle, stress, emotional instability, weight changes, medications, emergency contraception, diet, polycystic ovary syndrome, uterine or cervical lesions, infections, ovulation, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, among others.
It is advisable to consult a gynecologist if you are uncertain whether you have had a proper menstrual period or if you are concerned about pregnancy.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2017/08/14

More Info

Missed periods can be a source of concern, especially when accompanied by unusual discharge. In your case, it appears that you have experienced a missed period for two months, followed by brown discharge after taking menstrual induction medication. Let's break down the situation and address your concerns.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that a missed period can occur for various reasons, including hormonal imbalances, stress, significant weight changes, or underlying medical conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders. Given that your menstrual cycle has been irregular, this could be a contributing factor to your missed periods.

You mentioned having unprotected intercourse on July 23, which raises the possibility of pregnancy. However, you took a pregnancy test on August 5, which came back negative. Pregnancy tests are generally reliable when taken after a missed period, but they can sometimes yield false negatives, especially if taken too early. If you suspect you might be pregnant, it’s advisable to wait a few days and take another test or consult with your healthcare provider for a blood test, which can detect pregnancy earlier than a urine test.

The brown discharge you experienced on August 14 could be a sign of several things. It might be old blood that is being expelled from your body, which can happen at the end of a menstrual cycle or due to hormonal changes. It’s also possible that this discharge is related to the medication you took to induce menstruation. Medications that alter hormonal levels can sometimes cause spotting or irregular bleeding.

Regarding your concern about the potential effects of taking menstrual induction medication while pregnant, it’s crucial to note that if you were indeed pregnant, taking such medications could pose risks. However, since your pregnancy tests were negative, the likelihood of this being a concern is reduced. Nonetheless, if you have any doubts or continue to experience unusual symptoms, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional.

In terms of your overall health, if you continue to miss periods or experience irregular cycles, it would be wise to seek further evaluation. A gynecologist can perform a thorough assessment, including blood tests to check hormone levels, and possibly an ultrasound to evaluate the condition of your ovaries and uterus.

In summary, while it’s possible that you could be pregnant, the negative tests and the timing of your symptoms suggest that other factors may be at play. The brown discharge could be a result of hormonal changes or the effects of the medication. If your periods do not resume or if you have further concerns, please reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and management. Regular follow-ups can help ensure that any underlying issues are addressed, and your reproductive health is monitored effectively.

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