Experiencing Two Menstrual Cycles in One Month: What to Do? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Menstruation occurring twice in a month?


Hello doctor, my menstrual cycle has generally been quite regular.
This time, my period started on May 3 and lasted until May 12, which was a bit longer than usual.
I experienced breast tenderness that persisted for 2-3 days after my period, which has never lasted this long before.
Then, on May 16, I had premenstrual symptoms (diarrhea and some bloating, similar to my usual premenstrual feelings).
On May 17, I noticed a small amount of brown discharge, and on May 18, I started bleeding bright red blood, which was similar in volume to the second day of my period.
That day, I went to a gynecologist for an ultrasound, and the doctor said there were no abnormalities in my uterus or ovaries, and no blood clots were found.
I was prescribed medication to stop the bleeding, but after taking it, I continued to bleed as if it were my period.
What should I do? This is the first time I've encountered this situation.

cc, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/05/19

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello,
The content suggests that it may be caused by hormonal imbalance.
Please continue your follow-up appointments.
The Ministry of Health and Welfare cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2023/05/19

More Info


Experiencing two menstrual cycles in one month can be concerning, especially if your cycles have been regular in the past. It’s important to understand that various factors can influence menstrual cycles, including hormonal imbalances, stress, changes in weight, and underlying health conditions. Given your situation, here’s a comprehensive overview of what might be happening and what steps you can take.

Firstly, it’s not uncommon for women to experience irregularities in their menstrual cycles at some point in their lives. Factors such as stress, significant weight changes, or even changes in physical activity can lead to alterations in your cycle. In your case, the symptoms you described—breast tenderness, abdominal discomfort, and the onset of bleeding shortly after your last period—could indicate a hormonal fluctuation.
The fact that you experienced breast tenderness and cramping prior to the onset of your second cycle suggests that your body may be preparing for menstruation again. The presence of brown discharge followed by bright red blood is also typical of menstrual flow, but the timing is unusual given your recent cycle.
Since you have already consulted with a gynecologist and undergone an ultrasound that showed no abnormalities in your uterus or ovaries, this is a positive sign. However, if you are still experiencing heavy bleeding and the symptoms persist, it’s crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider. Here are some steps you can consider:
1. Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep a detailed record of your menstrual cycles, including the start and end dates, flow intensity, and any accompanying symptoms. This information can be invaluable for your doctor in determining the cause of your irregular cycles.

2. Follow Up with Your Doctor: Since you were prescribed medication to help with bleeding, it’s important to communicate with your doctor about how you are responding to the treatment. If the bleeding continues or worsens, or if you experience severe pain, you should seek medical attention promptly.

3. Consider Lifestyle Factors: Evaluate any recent changes in your life that could be contributing to your symptoms. Stress management techniques, a balanced diet, and regular exercise can help regulate your menstrual cycle.

4. Hormonal Evaluation: If your cycles remain irregular, your doctor may recommend blood tests to evaluate your hormone levels. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid disorders can lead to irregular menstrual cycles and may require specific treatment.

5. Understand Potential Conditions: While your ultrasound was normal, it’s still important to be aware of conditions that can cause irregular bleeding, such as fibroids, endometriosis, or hormonal imbalances. If your symptoms persist, further evaluation may be necessary.

6. Seek Immediate Care for Severe Symptoms: If you experience heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad or tampon every hour), severe pain, or any other concerning symptoms, do not hesitate to seek immediate medical attention.

In summary, while experiencing two menstrual cycles in one month can be alarming, it is often manageable with the right approach. Continue to monitor your symptoms, maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, and consider lifestyle factors that may be influencing your menstrual health. If your symptoms persist or worsen, further evaluation may be necessary to ensure your reproductive health is maintained.

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