Delayed Menstruation and the Role of Progesterone - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Delayed menstruation can be a source of concern for many women, especially when trying to conceive. In your case, it seems you have been actively trying to conceive your second child, and your menstrual cycle has been regular until now. Let's break down the situation based on the information you provided.

Firstly, you mentioned that your last menstrual period started on April 26, and you had unprotected intercourse on May 8, 9, and 11. A pregnancy test on May 22 was negative, and by May 24, your period still had not arrived. After consulting with your obstetrician, you were prescribed progesterone (specifically, Duphaston, which is a form of dydrogesterone) to take until May 31.
Progesterone plays a crucial role in the menstrual cycle and in maintaining early pregnancy. After ovulation, progesterone levels rise, which helps prepare the uterine lining for a potential implantation of a fertilized egg. If pregnancy does not occur, progesterone levels drop, leading to menstruation. In your case, since you were prescribed progesterone, it is possible that this medication is influencing your menstrual cycle.

Regarding your question about the brown discharge you experienced on May 27 and 28, it is not uncommon for women taking progesterone to experience changes in their menstrual flow. The brown discharge you described could be old blood, which is often seen at the beginning or end of a menstrual period. Since you mentioned that the discharge was very minimal and not typical of your usual menstrual flow, it could indeed be related to the progesterone you are taking.
As for the possibility of pregnancy, since you had a negative pregnancy test on May 22 and no visible embryo was detected on ultrasound, it is less likely that you are pregnant at this time. However, it is important to note that pregnancy tests can sometimes yield false negatives, especially if taken too early. The presence of progesterone in your system could also delay the onset of your period, making it difficult to determine if you are pregnant based solely on the timing of your menstrual cycle.

In summary, the progesterone you are taking could be affecting the amount and nature of your menstrual flow, leading to the brown discharge you observed. While the chances of pregnancy seem low based on the negative test and ultrasound findings, it is still advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation. They may suggest repeating the pregnancy test or conducting additional tests to determine the cause of your delayed menstruation and any associated symptoms.
If you continue to experience unusual symptoms or if your period does not arrive after stopping the progesterone, it is essential to consult your doctor for further assessment. They can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation and help you navigate your journey toward conceiving your second child.