Symptoms after discontinuing medication for depression?
Hello Doctor: I am 36 years old.
After undergoing surgery for uterine fibroids in January, I have been taking Duphaston for six months.
I stopped taking it on August 2, and my period started on August 6.
Since then, I have not taken the medication, but on August 18, I noticed brown discharge, and on August 9, the flow was about the equivalent of three panty liners.
I am very worried that something might be wrong with my body again.
Do you recommend that I continue taking Duphaston to prevent the recurrence of fibroids until I decide to try for a baby? Thank you.
Yixin, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/19
Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, you have been on medication for half a year, and since you are of advanced age, it's time to try to conceive.
Wishing you good health.
Reply Date: 2017/08/19
More Info
After undergoing a myomectomy, it's common to have concerns about the management of symptoms, especially after stopping medication like the one you mentioned, which I assume is a hormonal treatment such as a contraceptive pill or a medication aimed at managing fibroid symptoms. Your experience of having brown discharge shortly after stopping the medication could be a normal response as your body readjusts to its natural hormonal cycle. However, it’s essential to monitor your symptoms closely.
Understanding Your Symptoms
1. Post-Operative Changes: After a myomectomy, the body goes through various changes as it heals. Hormonal fluctuations can lead to irregular bleeding or spotting, which might explain the brown discharge you experienced. This discharge can often be old blood that is being expelled from the uterus.
2. Menstrual Cycle Resumption: The return of your menstrual cycle shortly after stopping the medication is a positive sign that your body is beginning to regulate itself. However, the amount and nature of the discharge can vary widely among individuals, especially after surgery.
3. Concerns About Fibroid Recurrence: Your worry about the recurrence of fibroids is valid, especially if you have a history of them. Hormonal treatments are often prescribed to manage symptoms and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Recommendations
1. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: It is crucial to discuss your concerns with your gynecologist or healthcare provider. They can evaluate your symptoms, possibly perform an ultrasound or other imaging studies to check for any abnormalities, and provide personalized advice based on your medical history.
2. Consider the Benefits of Medication: If your healthcare provider believes that continuing the medication could help prevent the recurrence of fibroids and manage your symptoms effectively, it may be worth considering. Hormonal treatments can help regulate your menstrual cycle and reduce the risk of new fibroid growth.
3. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a record of your menstrual cycle, any unusual discharge, and other symptoms you may experience. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in assessing your situation.
4. Lifestyle and Dietary Adjustments: Sometimes, lifestyle changes can help manage symptoms. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management techniques can contribute to overall hormonal balance and well-being.
5. Future Family Planning: If you are considering pregnancy in the future, discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can guide you on the best approach to manage your fibroids while planning for pregnancy.
Conclusion
In summary, while it is normal to have concerns after stopping medication post-myomectomy, it is essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and worries. They can provide the best guidance tailored to your specific situation, including whether to resume medication to prevent fibroid recurrence or manage your menstrual cycle effectively. Remember, your health and comfort are paramount, and proactive communication with your healthcare team is key to achieving the best outcomes.
Similar Q&A
Understanding the Impact of Stopping Antidepressants on Mental Health
Hello, Doctor: I would like to ask you about my past experience with antidepressant medication. I took it for about three months, and initially, the side effects were quite significant. However, after some time and adjustments to the medication, I improved a lot. Not only did I n...
Dr. Chen Guangpeng reply Psychiatry
Dear patient, I am deeply concerned and regretful upon reading about your situation. You may indeed be facing a risk of relapse, but there is no need to be overly pessimistic. Treatment plans for mental health conditions place great importance on the involvement of patients and/...[Read More] Understanding the Impact of Stopping Antidepressants on Mental Health
Understanding Medication Withdrawal: Managing Sleep Issues After Discontinuation
Hello Doctor, I would like to inquire about medication issues. I have been experiencing gastric pain due to autonomic nervous system dysfunction, and I have never had insomnia before taking the medication. After being prescribed Lurasidone for over three months, a pharmacist frie...
Dr. Zhang Gengjia reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, From your letter, it is evident that you are experiencing discomfort and distress due to suspected autonomic nervous system dysfunction and physical ailments. 1. Facing an uncertain future, psychosomatic disorders, such as autonomic nervous system dysfunction, a...[Read More] Understanding Medication Withdrawal: Managing Sleep Issues After Discontinuation
Is It Depression or Something Else? Understanding Mental Health Symptoms
Hello doctor, about a month and a half ago, I developed extrapyramidal symptoms due to medication side effects. After receiving antihistamine injections, my symptoms improved, but starting the next day, I experienced persistent nausea and vomiting for a while. During that time, I...
Dr. Zhang Gengjia reply Psychiatry
Dear Sir/Madam, From your letter, it is evident that you are experiencing discomfort and distress due to both physiological and psychological pressures. 1. Facing an uncertain future, psychosomatic disorders are common in modern individuals. This is a chronic condition that re...[Read More] Is It Depression or Something Else? Understanding Mental Health Symptoms
Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Why Symptoms Return After Stopping Medication
I previously experienced discomfort in my stomach and after undergoing an endoscopy, I felt somewhat better with medication, but the discomfort returned when I stopped taking it. I consulted a clinic and was prescribed Pantoprazole, which helped somewhat, but the discomfort retur...
Dr. Cai Anshun reply Gastroenterology and Hepatology
Hello: If you consume tea leaves, coffee, soda, chocolate, sweets, glutinous rice products, high-fat/high-protein foods, have a habit of overeating, smoke, drink alcohol, chew betel nut or gum, experience emotional stress, or are overweight, it is advisable to address these habit...[Read More] Understanding Gastrointestinal Issues: Why Symptoms Return After Stopping Medication
Related FAQ
(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
After Uterine Fibroid Surgery(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Drug Side Effects(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Postoperative Follow-Up(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Menopause(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Post-Abortion(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Medication Consultation(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Menstrual Abnormalities(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Menstrual Regulation Medication(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Discharge(Obstetrics and Gynecology)