Menstrual Regulation Medications: Your Questions Answered

Menstrual regulation medication treatment

Hello Doctor, my menstruation has required medication to induce it since high school.
Initially, doctors believed it was caused by excessive stress.
After blood tests in college, doctors suspected polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), so I have been taking medication to induce menstruation every three months.
Last September, my period came naturally without medication, but it did not come the following month.
I thought I would wait and see, but when it did not come in March of this year, I visited a gynecologist again.
After taking the medication to induce menstruation, I started taking the menstrual regulation medication, Estrogen, on the first day of my period, April 1st, with one pill in the morning and one in the evening.
The doctor estimated my period would come on April 25th, but I started on April 22nd.

1.
I would like to ask if this means my cycle is too short? Is it irregular?
2.
Also, during these days of menstruation, the blood flow has been quite light, the blood is dark, and there are many clots.
Is this due to the medication?
3.
Can I stop taking the menstrual regulation medication after this period ends? Would that cause irregularities in my body?
Thank you, Doctor, for your patient answers.

Kelly, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/04/24

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

After high school, I needed to take menstrual induction medication to get my period.
Initially, doctors believed it was caused by excessive stress.
After blood tests in college, doctors suspected polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), so I was advised to take the induction medication every three months.
Last September, my period came naturally without medication, but it didn't come the following month, so I decided to wait.
When it didn't come again in March of this year, I visited a gynecologist and took the induction medication.
On the first day of my period, April 1st, I started taking the menstrual regulation medication, Estrostep, one tablet in the morning and one in the evening.
The doctor estimated my period would come on April 25th, but I actually got it on April 22nd.

1.
I want to ask if this means my cycle is too short? Is it irregular?
Answer: This does not indicate a short cycle and is not considered irregular.
2.
The blood flow during these days has been relatively low, with dark blood and many clots.
Is this due to the medication?
Answer: Yes, this is due to the medication.
3.
Can I stop taking the menstrual regulation medication after this period ends? Will that cause irregularities in my body?
Answer: Yes, you can stop taking the menstrual regulation medication after this period ends, and it will not cause irregularities in your body.

Reply Date: 2018/04/24

More Info

Menstrual regulation medications, such as those you are currently taking, can be quite complex, especially when dealing with conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and irregular menstrual cycles. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Is a short menstrual cycle (like the one you experienced) considered irregular?
A typical menstrual cycle lasts between 21 to 35 days, with an average of about 28 days. If you experienced a cycle that was significantly shorter than this, it could be considered irregular. However, since you mentioned that you have been on medications to induce menstruation, it’s essential to consider that these medications can affect your cycle length. If your cycle was only 22 days from the start of one period to the start of the next, this could be a sign of irregularity, especially if this is not your typical pattern. It’s important to monitor your cycles over a few months to determine if this is a consistent pattern or an isolated incident.

2. Is the low blood volume and dark color of your menstrual blood due to medication?
The characteristics of menstrual blood can vary widely among individuals and can be influenced by various factors, including hormonal medications. When you take medications like the one you mentioned (益斯德, or Estrogen-Progestin combination), it can lead to lighter periods or changes in the color and consistency of menstrual blood. Dark blood often indicates older blood that has taken longer to exit the uterus, which can also be a normal variation. However, if you consistently notice a significant change in your menstrual flow or if you have concerns about the amount or color of your menstrual blood, it’s advisable to consult your healthcare provider. They can help determine if this is a normal response to the medication or if further investigation is needed.

3. Can you stop taking the menstrual regulation medication after this cycle?
Stopping the medication after your current cycle is a decision that should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider. If you have been prescribed these medications for a specific reason, such as to manage PCOS or to regulate your menstrual cycle, discontinuing them may lead to a return of irregular cycles or other symptoms associated with your condition. It’s essential to discuss your desire to stop the medication with your doctor, who can provide guidance based on your medical history and current health status. They may suggest a gradual tapering off or monitoring your cycles without medication to see how your body responds.

In summary, while menstrual regulation medications can help manage irregular cycles, they can also lead to changes in cycle length, blood volume, and blood characteristics. It’s crucial to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider to ensure that your treatment plan aligns with your health needs and to address any concerns you may have about your menstrual health. Regular follow-ups can help monitor your condition and adjust your treatment as necessary. Always prioritize your health and well-being by seeking professional advice tailored to your specific situation.

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