Managing Severe Menstrual Pain: The Role of Birth Control Pills - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Taking oral contraceptives for menstrual pain?


Hello, Doctor: I would like to inquire about my situation.
I suffer from severe dysmenorrhea, which significantly affects my daily life during my menstrual period.
I have seen a gynecologist who prescribed me medication to regulate my menstrual cycle.
After taking it, I experienced much less pain.
I have been regularly visiting for check-ups and have been on this medication for about 2 to 3 years.
The doctor consistently prescribes two types of medication: one for menstrual regulation and another for my stomach.
However, when I checked my medication records through the health insurance app, I could only find records for the stomach medication and not for the menstrual regulation medication.
The condition listed is related to gastrointestinal issues.
I would like to know if medication records are not fully available in the cloud-based medical records.
I also found that the medication "Mefenamic Acid" prescribed to me is listed as discontinued in the health insurance medication query, but I have still been receiving it from my doctor recently.
Can I still take a discontinued medication? Lastly, I would like to ask how many days' worth of menstrual regulation medication can be prescribed by a gynecologist? Is there a difference in the number of days' worth of medication that can be prescribed between general clinics and hospitals? Thank you!

chc, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/10

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, general contraceptive pills are not covered by health insurance.
The medication for regulating menstruation prescribed at clinics typically lasts for 3 days, while hospitals usually prescribe it for a week.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/06/10

More Info


Managing severe menstrual pain, also known as dysmenorrhea, can be a significant challenge for many women. Birth control pills are often prescribed as a treatment option due to their ability to regulate hormonal fluctuations and reduce menstrual pain.

The Role of Birth Control Pills in Managing Menstrual Pain
Birth control pills contain hormones that can help to regulate the menstrual cycle and reduce the severity of menstrual cramps. They work by suppressing ovulation, which in turn decreases the production of prostaglandins—hormones that are responsible for uterine contractions and the pain associated with menstruation. By lowering prostaglandin levels, birth control pills can lead to lighter periods and less intense cramping.

In addition to hormonal regulation, birth control pills can also help manage other symptoms associated with menstrual cycles, such as mood swings, bloating, and breast tenderness. Many women find that their overall quality of life improves when they use birth control pills to manage their menstrual symptoms.


Concerns About Medication Records
Regarding your concerns about the medication records, it is important to note that not all medications may be fully documented in electronic health records, especially if they are prescribed for off-label use or if there are specific coding issues. If your birth control pills are not showing up in your health records, it could be due to a variety of reasons, including the way the prescriptions are coded or entered into the system.

If you are concerned about the lack of documentation for your birth control pills, it would be advisable to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can provide clarity on your medication history and ensure that all your prescriptions are accurately recorded.


About the Medication Status
As for the medication you mentioned, "母扶樂錠" (Mefenamic Acid), if it has been officially withdrawn from the market but you are still able to obtain it, it is crucial to consult your healthcare provider. Sometimes, medications may be withdrawn for various reasons, including safety concerns or lack of efficacy, but they may still be available through specific channels. Your doctor can provide guidance on whether it is safe for you to continue using this medication.


Prescription Duration
In terms of how long you can obtain birth control pills from a gynecologist, it typically varies based on the individual’s health needs and the prescribing physician's practices. Generally, a prescription for birth control pills can be written for a few months at a time, often up to three months, to ensure that patients have a continuous supply. However, some doctors may choose to prescribe for shorter durations, especially if they want to monitor the patient’s response to the medication closely.

The duration of prescriptions may differ between general clinics and hospitals, with hospitals sometimes having more stringent protocols for prescribing certain medications. It is always best to check with your healthcare provider regarding their specific policies.


Conclusion
In summary, birth control pills can be an effective method for managing severe menstrual pain by regulating hormones and reducing the intensity of cramps. If you have concerns about your medication records or the status of your prescribed medications, it is essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider. They can provide the necessary information and support to ensure that you are managing your menstrual pain effectively and safely. Always prioritize your health and well-being by seeking professional advice when needed.

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