Abnormal Menstrual Bleeding After Stopping Birth Control - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Menstrual irregularities related to contraceptive pills?


Hello: Due to stopping the contraceptive pill (Xin Wu Ning) at the end of September, I experienced abnormal bleeding starting from October 5, which continued without interruption.
On October 9, I visited a nearby obstetrics and gynecology clinic (pregnancy test was negative).
The doctor prescribed medication for two days, but after finishing the medication on October 11, the bleeding persisted.
On October 17, due to severe lower abdominal pain, I went to Chiayi Christian Hospital.
The doctor administered a hemostatic injection and prescribed medication (including Tranexamic Acid, Uterotonics, Pain Relievers, and Medroxyprogesterone).
Starting from October 19, I experienced light bleeding.
The doctor scheduled a follow-up appointment for October 24.
After the follow-up on October 24, the doctor prescribed "Medroxyprogesterone" 5 mg, to be taken two tablets in the morning and evening.
The doctor informed me that during the period of taking "Medroxyprogesterone" 5 mg, I do not need to take contraceptive pills! Is it true that "Medroxyprogesterone" 5 mg also has contraceptive effects? I have been taking "Xin Wu Ning" for three years.
If I want to switch contraceptive pills, is it possible? Can you recommend which contraceptive pill to switch to?

jojo0914, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/10/27

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello: Regarding your question, the answers are as follows: (1) Yes, but the effectiveness is lower than that of commercially available conventional contraceptives.
The physician's statement refers to overlapping pharmacological effects, not that this can be used as a contraceptive method.
(2) You need to visit the outpatient clinic for a comprehensive routine examination and consultation.
Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2018/10/27

More Info


Abnormal menstrual bleeding after stopping birth control can be a common issue, particularly after long-term use of hormonal contraceptives like "欣無妊" (a form of birth control pill). When you stop taking hormonal contraceptives, your body may take some time to readjust to its natural hormonal cycle, which can lead to irregular bleeding or spotting. This phenomenon is often referred to as post-pill amenorrhea or withdrawal bleeding.

1. Understanding the Bleeding: After discontinuing birth control, it is not unusual to experience prolonged or irregular bleeding. The hormonal changes that occur when stopping the pill can lead to an imbalance in estrogen and progesterone levels, which can cause the endometrial lining to shed irregularly. In your case, the bleeding started shortly after stopping the pill and continued for an extended period, which prompted you to seek medical attention.

2. Medical Intervention: It’s good that you consulted with healthcare professionals when the bleeding became concerning. The treatments you received, including the hemostatic injection and medications like "美得樂" (likely a form of hormonal therapy), are aimed at stabilizing your menstrual cycle and reducing excessive bleeding. "美得樂" is known to have both therapeutic and contraceptive effects, which means it can help regulate your cycle while also providing birth control.

3. Switching Birth Control: If you are considering switching birth control methods after using "欣無妊" for three years, it is essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can help you choose a method that suits your health needs and lifestyle. There are various options available, including different types of hormonal contraceptives (like combination pills, progestin-only pills, patches, or IUDs) and non-hormonal methods (like copper IUDs or barrier methods).

4. Effectiveness of "美得樂": Regarding your question about whether "美得樂" can serve as a contraceptive, it is important to clarify that while it may have some contraceptive properties, it is primarily used for managing bleeding and may not be as effective as traditional birth control methods. If you are looking for reliable contraception, you should discuss this with your doctor to ensure you are adequately protected.

5. Monitoring Your Health: Since you have experienced significant bleeding and discomfort, it is crucial to keep monitoring your symptoms. If the bleeding persists or worsens, or if you experience severe pain, it is advisable to return to your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may want to rule out other potential causes of abnormal bleeding, such as fibroids, polyps, or hormonal imbalances.

6. Future Considerations: If you decide to conceive in the future, it is also important to discuss your menstrual health and any previous issues with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on how to prepare your body for pregnancy and what to expect after stopping birth control.

In conclusion, while it is common to experience abnormal bleeding after stopping birth control, it is essential to work closely with your healthcare provider to manage your symptoms and explore suitable contraceptive options. Your health and comfort should always be the priority, and open communication with your doctor will help you navigate these changes effectively.

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