Irregular Menstrual Cycles After Taking Medication: Key Insights

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Doctor, may I ask about the menstrual intervals since he started taking the menstrual induction medication? They have been 33, 35, 34, and 45 days, with the last period occurring from September 10 to September 16, with blood flow and duration being generally normal.
The last intimate contact was on August 3, right after his period ended, and then his next period was delayed by two weeks.
He has polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Previously, you mentioned that pregnancy was unlikely, and although his period was late, it eventually arrived.
Since then, we have not had any intimate contact.
Could the significant delay in his last period just be due to insufficient effectiveness of the menstrual induction medication? He has been studying for exams and today experienced mild abdominal pain, but it did not last long—just under an hour.
Could this be due to stress? It has been 36 days since his last period; is it possible that his period is coming soon?

A Du, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/10/17

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Since taking the menstrual induction medication, the menstrual intervals have been 33, 35, 34, and 45 days.
The last period was from September 10 to September 16, with blood flow and duration being generally normal.
The last intimate contact was on August 3, just after the period ended, and the next period was delayed by two weeks.
He has polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Previously, when I asked the doctor, he said pregnancy was unlikely, and although the period was late, it eventually came.
Since then, we have not had any intimate contact.
Is the significant delay in the last period simply due to insufficient effectiveness of the menstrual induction medication?
Answer: It is possible that he has been under stress due to recent exams.
Today, he experienced mild abdominal pain, but it did not last long—less than an hour.
Could this just be due to anxiety?
Answer: It is possible that it has been 36 days since the last period.
Is there a chance that the period is approaching?
Answer: Yes, it is possible.

Reply Date: 2019/10/17

More Info

Irregular menstrual cycles can be a common concern, especially after taking medication such as menstrual induction drugs. In your case, the menstrual intervals of 33, 35, 34, and 45 days suggest some variability, which can be influenced by several factors, including hormonal changes, stress, and the effects of the medication itself.

When a person with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) takes medication to induce menstruation, it is essential to understand that the medication may not always lead to a regular cycle. PCOS is characterized by hormonal imbalances that can affect ovulation and menstrual regularity. The irregular cycles you are experiencing could be a result of the underlying condition rather than solely the medication.
The last menstrual period you mentioned, occurring from September 10 to September 16, was followed by a delay of about two weeks before the next expected cycle. Given that you have not had any intimate contact since the last menstrual period, the likelihood of pregnancy is low, especially since you have been advised by your doctor that pregnancy is not a concern. The delayed menstruation could indeed be attributed to the effects of the menstrual induction medication, which may not have fully regulated your cycle.

Regarding the mild abdominal pain you experienced during a stressful time, it is not uncommon for stress and anxiety to manifest physically, leading to symptoms such as cramping or discomfort. The fact that the pain was transient and resolved within an hour suggests it may have been related to muscle tension or gastrointestinal discomfort rather than a gynecological issue. However, if the pain persists or worsens, it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

As for the possibility of your period approaching, it is feasible that the irregular cycle could mean that menstruation is imminent. The body sometimes takes longer to adjust after hormonal treatments, and the menstrual cycle can be unpredictable during this time. If you notice any additional symptoms, such as increased cramping, breast tenderness, or changes in discharge, these could indicate that your period is on its way.

In summary, the irregular menstrual cycles you are experiencing may be influenced by the medication, your underlying PCOS, and external factors such as stress. It is essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider about your symptoms and any concerns you may have. They can provide tailored advice and may suggest monitoring your cycle over the next few months to better understand your body's response to treatment. If irregularities persist or if you have any new symptoms, further investigation may be warranted to rule out other underlying conditions.

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