Should You Stop Birth Control Before Surgery for Adenoma?

Surgical removal of an intrauterine device (IUD)?

Since the adenoma has grown to a size that requires surgical removal, and the patient is currently using an intrauterine device (IUD), is it necessary to discontinue the medication? If discontinuation is required, should the new cycle be recalculated starting from the next menstrual period?

Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/03/16

Dr. Huang Yuande reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

If you are using an intrauterine device (IUD), there is no need to use birth control pills.
However, medications used to treat adenomyosis are intended to suppress endometriosis (adenomyosis) and should be taken as directed by your physician, as they are unrelated to contraception.

Reply Date: 2022/03/16

More Info

When considering whether to stop birth control before surgery for an adenoma, it is essential to understand the implications of continuing or discontinuing hormonal contraceptives in the context of surgical procedures. In your case, since you have an adenoma that requires surgical intervention and are currently using a contraceptive device (IUD), there are several factors to consider.

Firstly, hormonal contraceptives, including birth control pills and IUDs that release hormones, are generally safe to continue up until the time of surgery unless specifically advised otherwise by your healthcare provider. The primary concern with stopping hormonal birth control before surgery is the risk of unintended pregnancy, which can complicate surgical procedures and post-operative recovery. If you are using a non-hormonal IUD, there is typically no need to stop it before surgery, as it does not influence the surgical procedure itself.

However, if your adenoma surgery is planned and involves anesthesia, your healthcare provider may recommend stopping hormonal contraceptives for a short period before the surgery. This is primarily to minimize the risk of thromboembolic events, which can be a concern with certain types of hormonal contraceptives, especially in patients who may have other risk factors for blood clots. It is crucial to discuss your specific situation with your surgeon or gynecologist, as they will provide personalized advice based on your medical history and the type of surgery you are undergoing.

Regarding the timing of your menstrual cycle, if you do stop taking hormonal birth control, you would typically wait for your next menstrual period to start a new cycle. This is because hormonal contraceptives can alter your natural menstrual cycle, and stopping them may lead to irregularities initially. If you are advised to stop your birth control, it is essential to follow your healthcare provider's instructions on when to resume it after the surgery, as this can vary based on the type of surgery and your recovery.

In summary, whether you should stop birth control before surgery for an adenoma largely depends on the type of contraceptive you are using, your overall health, and the specifics of the surgical procedure. Always consult with your healthcare provider to make an informed decision that prioritizes your health and safety. They will guide you on the best practices regarding the timing of stopping and resuming birth control in relation to your surgery.

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