How Soon After Taking Menstrual Induction Pills Will My Period Start?

How many days after taking menstrual induction medication will menstruation occur?

My last menstrual period started on July 16.
I had unprotected intercourse with my boyfriend on August 14, 15, 16, and 17.
My previous menstrual cycles have averaged 30 days, with a maximum of 36 days.
However, as of today, August 25, my period has not arrived.
Since August 16, I have experienced a feeling of fullness in my lower abdomen.
I visited a gynecologist on August 23, and the ultrasound did not show any embryo in the uterus.
A pregnancy test also showed one line.
The doctor said it is still uncertain whether I am pregnant, and I need to return for a follow-up and retest between August 29 and September 1.

Given this situation, is it possible that I am pregnant? After August 16, my vaginal discharge has been dry.
After taking medication to induce menstruation, the next day I suddenly had clear, transparent discharge, and I have occasionally experienced symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS), such as nausea, lower abdominal bloating, and a cold sensation in the lower abdomen.

Could I be pregnant? Will the discharge increase after taking the medication to induce menstruation? How many days after taking the medication can I expect my period to arrive?

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/08/25

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The last menstrual period started on July 16.
I had unprotected intercourse with my boyfriend on August 14, 15, 16, and 17.
My previous menstrual cycles have averaged 30 days, with a maximum of 36 days.
However, as of today, August 25, my period has not arrived.
Since August 16, I have experienced persistent lower abdominal bloating.
I visited a gynecologist on August 23, and the ultrasound did not show any embryos in the uterus.
The pregnancy test was negative, showing only one line.
The doctor said it is still uncertain whether I am pregnant, and I need to return for a follow-up and retest between August 29 and September 1.
1.
Is it possible for me to be pregnant?
Answer: Since all intercourse was unprotected, there is a possibility of pregnancy.
2.
After August 16, my vaginal discharge has been dry.
After taking medication to induce menstruation, I suddenly had clear, transparent discharge, and I occasionally experience symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (nausea, lower abdominal bloating, and coldness in the lower abdomen).
Could I be pregnant?
Answer: The last menstrual period was on July 16, and the pregnancy test on August 23 was negative.
You should retest on September 1 for confirmation.
3.
Will taking medication to induce menstruation increase discharge?
Answer: Some individuals may experience increased discharge.
4.
After taking medication to induce menstruation, how soon can I expect my period?
Answer: Generally, it can take 3 to 7 days.

Reply Date: 2018/08/25

More Info

When it comes to menstrual induction pills, the timing of when your period will start can vary based on several factors, including the specific medication used, your individual hormonal balance, and your overall health. Generally, menstrual induction pills, which often contain hormones such as progesterone, are designed to help regulate your menstrual cycle and can prompt the onset of menstruation.

In your case, you mentioned that your last period started on July 16, and you had unprotected intercourse from August 14 to August 17. Given that your menstrual cycle typically ranges from 30 to 36 days, it is understandable that you are concerned about the delay in your period, especially since it is now August 25 and you have not yet menstruated.

The symptoms you are experiencing, such as abdominal bloating and changes in discharge, can be indicative of various conditions, including premenstrual syndrome (PMS) or even early signs of pregnancy. However, since you have taken a pregnancy test that returned negative and an ultrasound did not show any signs of an embryo, it is possible that you are not pregnant. The absence of menstruation could be due to hormonal fluctuations, stress, or other factors affecting your cycle.

After taking menstrual induction pills, many women experience a change in their discharge. It is common for the discharge to become more abundant and may vary in consistency. The clear, stretchy discharge you described could be related to hormonal changes induced by the medication.
Typically, after taking menstrual induction pills, you can expect your period to start within a few days to a week. However, this can vary. Some women may experience their period within 24 to 48 hours after taking the medication, while others may take longer. If your period does not start within a week of taking the pills, it is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Regarding your concerns about pregnancy, if you have had unprotected intercourse during your fertile window, there is always a possibility of pregnancy. However, since you have taken a pregnancy test that was negative and have not shown signs of pregnancy on ultrasound, it is less likely that you are pregnant. It is important to continue monitoring your symptoms and to follow up with your healthcare provider for additional testing if your period does not arrive as expected.

In summary, after taking menstrual induction pills, your period may start within a few days to a week. Changes in discharge are common, and while there is a possibility of pregnancy, the negative test results and ultrasound findings suggest that it is less likely. If you have further concerns or if your period does not start soon, please consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice and management.

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