Irregular Periods: What to Do When Menstruation Returns Early

Menstruation occurring twice in a month?

Doctor, I took Alicean last month and finished the 28 pills, after which I had my period at the expected time.
However, this month, I did not start the next pack on the fifth day of my period as previously advised by my doctor.
Instead, I planned to take a break from the medication for a month.
About ten days after my period ended, I suddenly got my period again.
What should I do in this situation? Additionally, if I want to continue with the next pack, when should I start taking it this month? Thank you, Doctor.

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

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, it could be ovulation bleeding.
Observe for 2-3 days to see if it stops.
If it doesn't, it's advisable to consult a gynecologist.
If it does stop, start taking birth control pills on the fifth day after your period begins.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2022/03/16

More Info

Irregular periods can be a source of concern for many individuals, especially when they occur unexpectedly. In your case, it seems that you have been taking a hormonal contraceptive, specifically a birth control pill (likely a combination pill), and have experienced an early return of menstruation after completing a pack. This situation can be influenced by several factors, including hormonal fluctuations, the timing of medication, and individual variations in menstrual cycles.

When you take hormonal contraceptives like the one you mentioned (愛麗斯安), they work by regulating your menstrual cycle and preventing ovulation. After finishing a pack, it is common for withdrawal bleeding (similar to a period) to occur. However, if you start a new pack before your next expected period, it can sometimes lead to irregular bleeding or spotting, especially if your body is adjusting to the hormones.

In your situation, since you experienced menstruation about ten days after your last period ended, it could be a result of several factors:
1. Hormonal Adjustment: Your body may still be adjusting to the hormonal changes from the contraceptive. This adjustment can sometimes lead to irregular bleeding patterns.

2. Missed Doses: If there were any missed doses or if the timing of taking the pills was inconsistent, this could also affect your menstrual cycle.

3. Underlying Conditions: Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or other hormonal imbalances can also lead to irregular periods.

To address your concerns:
1. Monitoring Your Cycle: Keep track of your menstrual cycle, noting the start and end dates of your periods, as well as any irregularities. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider.

2. Consulting Your Doctor: Since you have already been in contact with a physician regarding your contraceptive use, it would be wise to reach out to them again. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current situation.

3. Starting the Next Pack: If you plan to continue with the contraceptive, typically, you would start the next pack at the same time you would normally begin, which is usually after a seven-day break if you are on a 28-day pill cycle. However, since your cycle has been disrupted, your doctor may have specific recommendations based on your current bleeding pattern.

4. Managing Symptoms: If you experience discomfort or heavy bleeding, over-the-counter pain relievers may help. However, if the bleeding is excessive or accompanied by severe pain, seek medical attention promptly.

5. Consider Alternative Contraceptive Methods: If irregular periods continue to be a concern, discuss with your healthcare provider the possibility of alternative contraceptive methods that may better suit your needs.

In conclusion, while experiencing an early return of menstruation can be concerning, it is often manageable with proper monitoring and communication with your healthcare provider. They can help you navigate your contraceptive options and ensure that your menstrual health is maintained.

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