Should You Stop Taking Menstrual Induction Medication After Period Starts? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

Share to:

If you took a medication to induce menstruation and your period started the next day, should you stop taking the medication?


Hello doctor, my girlfriend visited a gynecologist due to irregular menstruation.
The gynecologist prescribed her medication to induce her period.
After taking the medication for one day, her period started.
Should she stop taking the medication or continue until it's finished?

Xiao Chen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/15

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


The purpose of menstrual induction medication is to initiate menstruation.
If it is confirmed that menstruation has begun, the medication can be discontinued.

Reply Date: 2022/04/15

More Info


When it comes to menstrual induction medications, the general recommendation is to stop taking the medication once menstruation has started. These medications, often prescribed to help regulate menstrual cycles or induce a period, are designed to work within a specific timeframe. If your girlfriend has started her period after taking the medication for just one day, it is typically advisable to discontinue use.

Menstrual induction medications can include various hormonal treatments, such as progestins or estrogen, which are intended to help regulate the menstrual cycle. Once menstruation begins, the body naturally initiates the shedding of the uterine lining, which is the primary purpose of these medications. Continuing to take the medication after the onset of menstruation may not only be unnecessary but could also lead to potential side effects or hormonal imbalances.

It is important to note that every individual may respond differently to medications, and the specific instructions can vary based on the type of medication prescribed. In some cases, a healthcare provider may recommend completing the course of medication even if menstruation begins, particularly if the medication is intended to address underlying hormonal issues or if the dosage is low. However, this is not common practice for most menstrual induction medications.

If your girlfriend has any concerns or experiences unusual symptoms after starting her period, it would be wise for her to consult with her healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on her medical history and the specific medication she has been prescribed. Additionally, if her menstrual irregularities persist, further evaluation may be necessary to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment options.

In summary, it is generally recommended to stop taking menstrual induction medication once menstruation begins. However, consulting with a healthcare professional for personalized advice is always the best course of action to ensure safety and effectiveness in managing menstrual health.

Similar Q&A

Should You Continue Taking Menstrual Induction Medication After Your Period?

Hello doctor, I went to see a physician on August 31 because my period did not arrive. I had a blood test and took medication to induce menstruation for about three days. Later, on September 2, I reviewed the report, and the doctor said my estrogen level was only 2, so I need to ...


Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, you can stop the medication and observe since your menstruation is about to start. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Should You Continue Taking Menstrual Induction Medication After Your Period?


Should You Stop Taking Menstrual Induction Medication If Flow Is Light?

Hello Dr. Tsao: Due to polycystic ovary syndrome, my last menstrual period was on December 24, 2022 (I started taking Janumet from day 5 to day 21). I did not have a menstrual period in January 2023 (during this time, there was no sexual activity and I did not take Janumet). On F...


Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, stop taking the menstrual induction medication and start taking birth control pills on the fifth day of your period. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Should You Stop Taking Menstrual Induction Medication If Flow Is Light?


Can I Stop Taking Progestin If My Period Starts Early?

If my period is delayed and my gynecologist prescribed Protanon to induce menstruation, can I stop taking the medication if my period starts halfway through?


Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, if it is confirmed that the bleeding is a normal menstrual period, you can stop the medication. If you are unsure, please continue taking the medication until completion or consult a physician to determine if it is indeed menstruation. Thank you! Wishing you peace and heal...

[Read More] Can I Stop Taking Progestin If My Period Starts Early?


Can You Safely Stop Birth Control Pills to Induce Menstruation?

Hello Doctor, I have been taking Diane for about 9 months. Currently, I am on day 15 of this cycle, and due to travel plans, I would like to advance my menstrual period by about a week. I have a few questions: 1. Is it possible to stop the medication early to induce my period s...


Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, you can stop the medication and start taking another pack of birth control pills on the fifth day of your menstrual period. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Can You Safely Stop Birth Control Pills to Induce Menstruation?


Related FAQ

Medication To Induce Menstruation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Medication To Delay Menstruation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Menstrual Regulation Medication

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Ovulation Medication

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Safe Period

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Premenstrual Syndrome

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Birth Control Pills

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

First Menstruation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Bleeding Outside Of Menstruation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Menstrual Cramps

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)