Missed Period: Irregularities and Concerns - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Missed menstruation?


At the beginning of April, I had my period, but the flow was light and brown.
Then, in mid-April, I had unprotected sexual intercourse, but there was no ejaculation inside.
Now it's May, and my period still hasn't arrived.
A few days ago, I took a urine test, and the doctor said I am not pregnant.
I also received a medication to induce my period, but it still hasn't come.
Am I just too anxious, and has my period become irregular?

Min min, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/05/21

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, the factors that can affect the menstrual cycle are numerous, including age, environment, lifestyle, stress, emotional instability, weight changes, medications, emergency contraceptive pills, diet, polycystic ovary syndrome, uterine or cervical lesions, infections, ovulation, pregnancy, and breastfeeding, among others.
The impact of emergency contraceptive pills on menstruation can vary; it may cause the period to come earlier or later, and their contraceptive effectiveness is not 100%.
If your symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist to check for hormonal imbalances or other underlying causes.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2019/05/21

More Info


It sounds like you are experiencing a complex situation regarding your menstrual cycle, missed periods, and concerns about potential pregnancy. Let's break down your concerns and provide some clarity based on medical knowledge.

Firstly, it’s important to understand that menstrual cycles can be influenced by a variety of factors, including stress, hormonal imbalances, changes in weight, and even lifestyle choices. Your mention of a missed period, especially after having had a light brown discharge, could indicate several possibilities.

1. Menstrual Irregularities: It is not uncommon for women to experience irregularities in their menstrual cycles. Factors such as stress, significant changes in lifestyle, or even recent medical procedures (like the one you mentioned regarding a previous miscarriage) can lead to changes in cycle length and flow. The brown discharge you observed could be old blood that is taking longer to exit the body, which can happen at the beginning or end of a menstrual period.

2. Impact of Stress: Stress is a significant factor that can disrupt the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, which regulates the menstrual cycle. If you have been feeling anxious or stressed, this could very well be contributing to your irregular cycle. The body can react to stress by delaying ovulation or menstruation, leading to a missed period.

3. Pregnancy Concerns: You mentioned having unprotected intercourse but also noted that there was no ejaculation inside the vagina. While this reduces the risk of pregnancy, it does not eliminate it entirely, as pre-ejaculate fluid can contain sperm. However, since you have already taken a urine pregnancy test that returned negative and have received a hormonal injection to induce menstruation, the likelihood of pregnancy is low.

4. Hormonal Treatments: The administration of a medication to induce menstruation (often referred to as a "period-inducing shot") is a common approach when a period is significantly delayed. If you have received this treatment and your period has not yet arrived, it may take some time for your body to respond. Hormonal treatments can sometimes take a few days to a couple of weeks to show effects, depending on individual circumstances.

5. Next Steps: If your period does not arrive after the hormonal treatment, or if you continue to experience symptoms such as abdominal pain, significant mood changes, or any other concerning symptoms, it would be advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may recommend further evaluation, including blood tests to check hormone levels or an ultrasound to assess your reproductive organs.

In conclusion, while it is understandable to feel anxious about missed periods and potential pregnancy, it is essential to consider the broader context of your health and lifestyle. Irregularities can be common and often resolve with time or appropriate medical intervention. If you continue to have concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and support. Remember, your health and peace of mind are paramount.

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