Missed Period After Taking Menstrual Delay Medication: What to Know

I didn't get my period the month after taking the medication for menstrual regulation?

Hello, I would like to ask about my situation.
I traveled from July 8 to 10 last month and took some menstrual delay medication from a clinic for about 5 to 6 days.
My period was supposed to arrive on August 13, but today is August 24 and it still hasn't come.
During this time, I had sexual relations with my boyfriend, but there was no ejaculation inside.
I would like to know if it is normal for my period to be delayed this month.

Yangyang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/24

Dr. Huang Yuande reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Taking medication to delay menstruation contains hormones, which can alter the menstrual cycle.
Therefore, the ovulation day may also be uncertain, and this is normal.
To determine if you are pregnant, a home pregnancy test will suffice.

Reply Date: 2022/08/24

More Info

When it comes to missed periods after taking menstrual delay medication, there are several important factors to consider. First, it’s essential to understand how these medications work. Menstrual delay medications, such as those containing hormones like norethisterone, are often prescribed to postpone menstruation for various reasons, including travel or special events. These medications can alter the normal hormonal balance in your body, which may lead to changes in your menstrual cycle.

In your case, since you took the medication for about 5 to 6 days leading up to your expected period on August 13, it is possible that the hormonal changes induced by the medication could have delayed your period. Hormonal medications can sometimes cause a delay in menstruation even after you stop taking them, as your body may take some time to readjust to its natural cycle.
Given that today is August 24 and you have not yet had your period, it is not uncommon for menstrual cycles to be irregular after taking such medications. However, it is also important to consider other factors that could contribute to a missed period, such as stress, changes in weight, exercise habits, or other underlying health conditions. Stress, in particular, can significantly impact your menstrual cycle, and since you mentioned traveling, this could also be a contributing factor.

Regarding your sexual activity, you mentioned that there was no ejaculation inside. While this reduces the likelihood of pregnancy, it is not a foolproof method of contraception. If you are concerned about the possibility of being pregnant, it would be advisable to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are generally accurate if taken after a missed period, and they can provide peace of mind.

If your period does not arrive within a week or two, or if you experience any unusual symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, or other concerning signs, it would be wise to consult a healthcare professional. They can provide further evaluation and determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed.

In summary, while it is possible that the missed period is a result of the menstrual delay medication, it is important to monitor your body and consider other factors that may be at play. If you have any doubts or concerns, especially regarding the possibility of pregnancy, taking a pregnancy test and consulting with a healthcare provider would be the best course of action.

Similar Q&A

Impact of Missed Birth Control Pills on Menstrual Cycle Timing

If you have been taking birth control pills for an extended period and then forget to take them, resulting in an early onset of your menstrual period, the timing of your next menstrual period may vary. It could return to the original schedule or may be affected by the early perio...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
What you need is not medical advice but a refresher on sexual health knowledge. For such questions, it is recommended to refer to the National Health Administration's "Sexual Well-being e-Learning" or the Obstetrics and Gynecology Society's "Adolescent Co...

Missed Period After Taking Menstrual Induction Pills: What to Do Next?

If your menstruation has been delayed for three weeks and you have taken medication to induce your period (for three days) but still have not menstruated after a week, it is advisable to visit a larger hospital for further evaluation. It is important to determine the underlying c...

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. Hormonal medications (including contraceptives) have different usage methods depending on their intended purpose. 2. If a transvaginal ultrasound is not performed to confirm endometrial thickness, there is often a failure to induce menstruation. 3. It is recommended to wait fo...

Does Last Month's Menstrual Delay Medication Affect This Month's Cycle?

Hello doctor, last month I took a medication to delay my period before going on a trip, and my period did come. However, this month my period is a few days late. I have had sexual intercourse during this time, but we used condoms throughout. I would like to know if the medication...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the factors that can affect the menstrual cycle or cause intermenstrual bleeding are numerous, including age, environment, lifestyle, stress, emotional instability, weight changes, medications, hormonal drugs (including pre- and post-coital contraceptives, and menstrual de...

Does Medication Affect Your Menstrual Cycle? Understanding Delays and Concerns

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if taking medication to delay menstruation can affect the timing of my next period. I took the medication for a week in January, and my period started one or two days after stopping the medication (on January 24 or 25). However, my period did no...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, taking emergency contraceptive pills can affect your next menstrual period, and the chances of pregnancy are low. It is best to take preventive measures beforehand. If you still experience discomfort, you may consider consulting a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.