Managing Menstrual Irregularities: When to Use Progesterone

Progesterone and menstrual irregularities?

Hello Dr.
Huang: I took progesterone and estrogen for three days on March 10, and my period came as expected; otherwise, I hadn't had a period for two years except during the winter and summer breaks.
The doctor then prescribed me 10 days of medroxyprogesterone to supplement progesterone, one tablet daily, starting on March 25.
However, I happened to sprain my ankle and needed to take traditional Chinese medicine, so I decided not to take the progesterone.
My period still hasn't arrived.
Should I start taking the 10-day course now, or should I take it for a few days and see if my period comes? Thank you.

yi, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/04/15

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

On March 10, after taking progesterone and estrogen for three days, my menstrual period arrived smoothly.
Otherwise, my period has only come during winter and summer vacations for the past two years.
The doctor prescribed 10 days of medroxyprogesterone to supplement progesterone, to be taken once daily starting March 25.
However, due to a sprain, I needed to take traditional Chinese medicine, so I decided not to take the progesterone.
Now, my period still hasn't arrived.
Should I start taking the 10-day course now, or should I take it for a few days and see if my period comes? Answer: Start taking the 10-day course now.

Reply Date: 2019/04/15

More Info

Managing menstrual irregularities can be a complex issue, and the use of progesterone, such as medroxyprogesterone, is often a key part of treatment. In your case, it seems that you have a history of irregular menstrual cycles, which have been managed with hormone therapy. The fact that your menstrual cycle has been irregular for two years, with periods only occurring during school breaks, suggests a possible underlying hormonal imbalance that needs to be addressed.

Progesterone is typically prescribed to help regulate the menstrual cycle, especially in cases where there is a deficiency of this hormone. It can help to prepare the uterine lining for a potential pregnancy and also plays a role in shedding the lining during menstruation. In your situation, since you were prescribed medroxyprogesterone to take starting on March 25, it is important to consider a few factors before deciding how to proceed.

First, if you have missed your period and are experiencing irregularities, it may be beneficial to start taking the medroxyprogesterone as prescribed. This medication can help to induce a withdrawal bleed, which is essentially a period that occurs after stopping progesterone. If you have already missed your period, taking the medication may help to regulate your cycle and bring on menstruation.

However, since you mentioned that you have been dealing with a recent injury and have been considering taking traditional Chinese medicine, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen. Some herbal remedies can interact with hormonal medications, potentially affecting their efficacy or causing unwanted side effects.
If you decide to start taking the medroxyprogesterone, it is generally recommended to take it for the full course as prescribed, which is typically 10 days. This allows the medication to work effectively in regulating your cycle. If you do not get your period after completing the course, it would be advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may want to investigate other potential causes of your menstrual irregularities, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid issues, or other hormonal imbalances.

In summary, it is advisable to start taking the medroxyprogesterone as prescribed, unless your healthcare provider advises otherwise. Monitor your body’s response to the medication, and keep an open line of communication with your doctor regarding any concerns or side effects you may experience. If your period does not return after the course of medication, further investigation may be necessary to determine the underlying cause of your menstrual irregularities. Always prioritize safety and consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment plan.

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