Three Months Post-Surgery: No Period After Lupron Injection

Three months of missed periods on Lybrel?

Hello Doctor, I underwent surgery for a chocolate cyst in early May and received a three-month injection of Lupron on May 3rd.
However, it is now nearly November, and I still have not gotten my period.
Since I live abroad, I am unable to return to Taiwan to consult with the doctor who performed my surgery.
Is this situation normal? Do I need to go to the hospital for any follow-up examinations, or should I continue to wait? Thank you for your help.

Ceci, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/29

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

I underwent chocolate cyst surgery in early May and received a three-month injection of Lupron (on May 3).
However, it is now approaching November, and I still have not gotten my period.
Since I live abroad, I cannot return to Taiwan to consult the doctor who performed the surgery.
Is this situation normal? Do I need to go to the hospital for any follow-up examinations, or should I continue to wait? Answer: This situation is normal.

Reply Date: 2017/10/29

More Info

After undergoing surgery for a chocolate cyst and receiving a three-month Lupron (leuprolide) injection, it is understandable to be concerned about the absence of menstruation. Lupron is a GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) agonist that is often used to treat conditions such as endometriosis and uterine fibroids by suppressing estrogen production. This suppression can lead to a temporary cessation of menstrual periods, which is a common side effect of the medication.

In your case, since you had the injection in early May and it is now approaching November without the return of your menstrual cycle, it is important to consider several factors. First, the duration of Lupron’s effects can vary from person to person. While the medication is designed to last for about three months, some individuals may experience prolonged amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) even after the medication has worn off. This can be due to the hormonal changes induced by the treatment, especially if you have underlying conditions such as endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can also affect menstrual regularity.

It is also worth noting that the recovery of menstrual cycles can take time, particularly after surgical interventions. The body may need several months to readjust and resume normal hormonal function. However, if you are experiencing other symptoms such as significant weight changes, excessive hair growth, or any signs of hormonal imbalance, it would be prudent to seek medical advice.

Given that you are currently residing abroad and unable to consult your original surgeon, I recommend scheduling an appointment with a local healthcare provider who can evaluate your situation. They may perform a physical examination, check hormone levels through blood tests, and possibly conduct imaging studies if necessary. This will help determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed.

In summary, while it is not uncommon to experience a delay in the return of your menstrual cycle after a Lupron injection, especially following surgery, it is essential to monitor your health and seek medical advice if the absence of menstruation continues. Your healthcare provider can offer personalized guidance and determine if any further investigations or treatments are needed. Remember, your health and peace of mind are paramount, so do not hesitate to reach out for professional support.

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