Pre-Conception Pills and Surgery: Key Considerations for Women

Issues Related to Emergency Contraceptive Pills and Cyst Surgery

Hello Dr.
Tsai, thank you very much for your response.
Initially, we did not plan to proceed with surgery for the 3.4 cm issue and intended to just monitor it.
However, due to concerns from the elders at home, we decided to go ahead with the surgery after multiple discussions.
During the outpatient visit, we did not ask the doctor detailed questions regarding the previous inquiry, so I would like to seek your assistance in clarifying our confusion.
Thank you for your help; we are very grateful.
Regarding the previous questions:
1.
If my wife was taking the contraceptive pill halfway through, is it better for her to stop taking it or to continue?
2.
Will continuing to take the pill affect the surgery?
3.
What precautions should be taken whether we stop or continue taking the pill?
4.
If we previously paused for a month, after my wife's body has recovered from surgery, should we wait until her ovulation cycle is confirmed to resume taking the contraceptive pill, or can she start taking it right after recovery?

Mr. Wang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/12/11

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, you should stop taking medication before the surgery, so go ahead and discontinue it.
Generally, birth control pills are started on the fifth day of the menstrual cycle and then repeated.
A size of 3 to 4 centimeters should typically be monitored, and surgery is not necessary at this time.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/12/11

More Info

When considering pre-conception pills and surgery, especially for women, there are several important factors to take into account. Your questions reflect a common concern among women who are navigating the complexities of reproductive health, surgical interventions, and the use of hormonal contraceptives. Here’s a comprehensive overview addressing your inquiries.

1. Continuing or Stopping Birth Control Pills: If your wife is currently taking birth control pills and is scheduled for surgery, it is generally advisable to consult with the surgeon or the prescribing physician regarding whether to continue or stop the medication. In many cases, especially if the surgery is not related to reproductive health, it may be safe to continue taking the pills. However, if the surgery involves the reproductive organs, some doctors may recommend stopping the pills a few weeks prior to the procedure to minimize the risk of complications, such as blood clots.

2. Impact of Continuing Birth Control on Surgery: Continuing to take birth control pills typically does not interfere with the surgical procedure itself, particularly if the surgery is not gynecological. However, it is crucial to inform the surgical team about any medications being taken, including hormonal contraceptives, as they may influence anesthesia choices or post-operative care.

3. Considerations for Stopping or Continuing: If your wife decides to stop taking the pills, she should be aware that it may take some time for her menstrual cycle to regulate, which could affect her fertility planning. If she continues to take the pills, she should ensure that she is following the prescribed regimen closely, as missing doses can lead to unintended ovulation. Additionally, if she has any underlying health conditions, such as a history of blood clots or certain cancers, these factors should be discussed with her healthcare provider.

4. Resuming Birth Control After Surgery: After surgery, it is essential to allow the body time to heal. If your wife has stopped taking the pills before the surgery, she should wait until she has fully recovered and her menstrual cycle has stabilized before resuming the pills. This may take a few weeks to a couple of months, depending on the individual and the type of surgery performed. It’s advisable to consult with her healthcare provider to determine the best time to restart the contraceptive method, ensuring that her body has adequately healed and that she is ready for any potential hormonal changes.

In addition to these considerations, it’s important to discuss any potential risks associated with the surgery itself, especially if there are concerns about the presence of fibroids or other reproductive health issues. Understanding the implications of the surgery on future fertility and the timing of conception is crucial.
Lastly, emotional support and open communication with healthcare providers can significantly alleviate anxiety surrounding surgery and fertility planning. It’s beneficial to have a thorough discussion with the surgeon about the procedure, recovery expectations, and any potential impacts on future pregnancies.
In conclusion, navigating the intersection of surgery and pre-conception planning requires careful consideration and consultation with healthcare professionals. Each woman's situation is unique, and personalized medical advice is essential for making informed decisions that align with her health goals and family planning aspirations.

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