Does Estrogen Intake Affect Menstrual Cycle Regularity? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Does taking estrogen affect the menstrual cycle?


Last month, I got my period on April 3rd, but on April 12th, I noticed some slight blood in my urine.
The doctor said it might be due to hormonal deficiency and prescribed estrogen.
I took two pills that day, but I felt very dizzy afterward, so I stopped taking them, and I didn't see any blood that day.
However, this month in May, my period still hasn't arrived, and I tested negative for pregnancy.
Could this be related to the medication? My previous cycles have always been regular, arriving 2-3 days early!

Miss He, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/05/15

Dr. Lin Xinwang reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello Ms.
He: If you are experiencing menstrual irregularities, it could be due to hormonal imbalances or related to pregnancy.
It is recommended to take a pregnancy test again in 1 to 2 weeks.
If you are not pregnant, it is advisable to consider medication to regulate your menstrual cycle or to check for signs of menopause.

Reply Date: 2023/05/15

More Info


Estrogen intake can indeed affect menstrual cycle regularity, and your experience highlights some important considerations regarding hormonal treatments.
Firstly, it’s essential to understand that estrogen plays a crucial role in regulating the menstrual cycle. It is involved in the thickening of the uterine lining during the follicular phase and is necessary for ovulation. When estrogen levels are insufficient, it can lead to irregularities in the menstrual cycle, including delayed periods or spotting between cycles, as you experienced with the blood-tinged urine.

In your case, the doctor prescribed estrogen due to a suspected hormonal deficiency. The initial dose of two pills may have been intended to quickly elevate your estrogen levels, but the dizziness you experienced could indicate that the dosage was too high for your body to handle at once. It’s not uncommon for individuals to have side effects when starting hormone therapy, especially if they have not been on it before. After stopping the medication, your body may take some time to adjust back to its natural hormonal rhythm, which could explain the delay in your menstrual cycle this month.

It’s also worth noting that hormonal treatments can sometimes lead to a temporary disruption in the menstrual cycle. If your cycles were previously regular and you suddenly introduced estrogen, your body might need time to recalibrate. This recalibration can result in a delayed period, especially if your body is still adjusting to the hormonal changes.
Moreover, stress, changes in weight, and other lifestyle factors can also influence menstrual regularity. If you have experienced any significant changes in your life recently, these could also be contributing factors.
Regarding your concern about pregnancy, since you mentioned that you have tested negative, it seems less likely that pregnancy is the cause of your missed period. However, if your period does not return in the next few weeks, or if you continue to experience unusual symptoms, it would be prudent to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may want to conduct further evaluations to rule out any underlying conditions that could be affecting your menstrual cycle.

In summary, estrogen intake can affect menstrual cycle regularity, especially if there is a sudden change in hormone levels. Your experience of dizziness and subsequent missed period may be related to the introduction of estrogen and your body’s adjustment to it. It’s essential to communicate with your healthcare provider about any side effects and concerns you have, as they can help tailor your treatment plan to better suit your needs and ensure your menstrual health is managed effectively. If you have any further questions or if your symptoms persist, do not hesitate to seek medical advice.

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