Is It Normal to Have Blood-Streaked Discharge After 21 Days of Medication? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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After taking the 21-day menstrual regulation medication, there are blood-streaked secretions?


I started my menstrual period on July 6, and then I experienced bleeding again on July 25, which felt similar to my menstrual cycle.
After visiting the doctor on July 26, I was prescribed a 21-day course of SHITON and was informed that the bleeding would stop after taking the medication.
After starting the medication on July 27, the bleeding ceased.
However, starting from August 7, I noticed a slight amount of blood in my discharge, and this has continued until today, August 9.
Is this a normal occurrence? Should I continue taking the medication or return for a follow-up appointment immediately?

Lili, 50~59 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/10

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hormone therapy during the perimenopausal period can lead to bleeding episodes.
It is recommended to return to the clinic for evaluation and to discuss whether an adjustment in medication dosage is necessary.

Reply Date: 2021/08/10

More Info


It’s understandable to be concerned about any unusual symptoms, especially after starting a new medication. In your case, experiencing blood-streaked discharge after 21 days of taking medication like SHITON (likely a form of hormonal therapy) can be a common occurrence, but it’s essential to interpret this in the context of your overall health and the specific medication you are taking.

Hormonal medications, particularly those that influence menstrual cycles, can lead to various side effects, including breakthrough bleeding or spotting. Breakthrough bleeding refers to unexpected bleeding that occurs between menstrual periods, and it can happen for several reasons, including hormonal fluctuations, the body adjusting to new medication, or even the medication's effects on the uterine lining.

In your situation, since you started the medication on July 27 and experienced a cessation of bleeding initially, the subsequent appearance of blood-streaked discharge could be attributed to your body adjusting to the hormonal changes induced by the medication. This is particularly common in the first few months of starting hormonal treatments. The presence of a small amount of blood in your discharge does not necessarily indicate a serious problem, especially if it is minimal and not accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as severe pain, heavy bleeding, or signs of infection (like fever or foul-smelling discharge).

However, it is crucial to monitor the situation closely. If the bleeding becomes heavier, lasts longer than a few days, or if you experience any other troubling symptoms, it would be wise to consult your healthcare provider promptly. They may want to evaluate your situation further, possibly adjusting your medication or investigating other potential causes of the bleeding.

In terms of whether to continue taking the medication, it is generally advisable to follow your doctor's instructions unless otherwise directed. If your doctor prescribed the medication with the expectation that it would help regulate your cycle or address other symptoms, it is usually best to complete the course as directed. However, if you have concerns about the bleeding or any side effects, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance. They may suggest a follow-up appointment to reassess your condition and determine if any changes to your treatment plan are necessary.

In summary, while some spotting or blood-streaked discharge can be normal when starting hormonal medications, it is essential to stay vigilant and communicate with your healthcare provider about any changes in your symptoms. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.

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