Can You Start Birth Control Pills After Taking Menstrual Induction Medication?

Menstrual induction medication/oral contraceptives

Hello, I would like to ask the doctor.
I have had irregular menstrual cycles since I started menstruating at the age of 13.
My last menstrual period was on April 12, 2020 (induced by medication).
During my follow-up appointment on August 6, 2020, my gynecologist mentioned that I have a 4 cm cyst on one of my ovaries and scheduled a follow-up in two months.
I was prescribed medication to induce menstruation.
Can I start taking oral contraceptives for cycle regulation and contraception on the fifth day after my period starts from the induced menstruation? (I am concerned that the menstruation induced by medication may not be a true ovulatory cycle, and I am unsure if I can take oral contraceptives.) Thank you, doctor.

Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/08/06

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

It is advisable to visit a gynecologist for an examination to determine the cause of irregular menstruation.

Reply Date: 2020/08/06

More Info

When considering the use of birth control pills after taking menstrual induction medication, it is essential to understand how these medications interact with your menstrual cycle and overall reproductive health. Based on your situation, it appears that you have been experiencing irregular menstrual cycles and have been prescribed medication to induce menstruation.
Menstrual induction medications, such as hormonal treatments, are designed to stimulate a menstrual period when your body is not doing so naturally. These medications can help regulate your cycle, but they do not necessarily guarantee that ovulation will occur. When you take these medications, your body may respond differently, and the menstrual flow you experience may not reflect a typical ovulatory cycle.
In your case, since you mentioned that you received menstrual induction medication and are considering starting birth control pills on the fifth day of your induced menstrual cycle, it is generally safe to start taking birth control pills at that time. Birth control pills work by providing consistent hormone levels that can help regulate your menstrual cycle, prevent ovulation, and offer contraceptive protection.
Starting the birth control pills on the fifth day of your period is a common practice, as it allows your body to establish a new hormonal balance. However, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that this approach is appropriate for your specific situation. They can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history, the type of menstrual induction medication you received, and any underlying conditions that may affect your reproductive health.

Additionally, it is important to note that while birth control pills can help regulate your cycle and provide contraception, they may not address the underlying issues that caused your irregular periods in the first place. If you have a cyst on one of your ovaries, as you mentioned, your doctor may want to monitor it closely to ensure it does not cause complications. In some cases, hormonal contraceptives can help manage ovarian cysts, but this should be discussed with your healthcare provider.

In summary, starting birth control pills after taking menstrual induction medication is generally safe, especially if done on the fifth day of your induced period. However, it is essential to have a thorough discussion with your healthcare provider to ensure that this plan aligns with your overall reproductive health goals and to address any concerns regarding your ovarian cyst. Regular follow-ups and monitoring will be key to managing your menstrual health effectively.

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