Did My Period Start After Taking Menstrual Induction Pills? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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I took a menstrual induction pill and then realized that my period started?


Hello, doctor.
I currently have no possibility of being pregnant, but my period has been delayed for a while.
I just visited a gynecologist this morning, and they prescribed me a medication to induce menstruation (Medroxyprogesterone).
However, after taking one pill, I went to the bathroom (about two hours later) and noticed a little bit of blood.
Does this mean my period has started? Should I continue taking the medication? Thank you for taking the time to answer my questions.

Shaoyao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/05/31

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, it is possible that your menstrual period is about to start.
You may consider stopping the medication and observing whether your period begins.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/05/31

More Info


When it comes to menstrual induction pills, such as Medroxyprogesterone (often referred to as "美得能" in Chinese), it's important to understand how they work and what to expect after taking them. These medications are commonly prescribed to help regulate menstrual cycles, especially when periods are delayed or absent due to various reasons, including hormonal imbalances or stress.

In your case, since you mentioned that you took one pill and then noticed a small amount of blood a couple of hours later, it is possible that this could be the onset of your menstrual period. However, it's also important to note that some women may experience spotting or breakthrough bleeding after taking these medications, which does not necessarily indicate the start of a full menstrual period.

Here are some key points to consider:
1. Timing of Menstrual Induction: Menstrual induction pills typically take a few days to a week to fully induce a period. If you have just taken one pill, it may be too early to determine if your period has started or if the bleeding you observed is related to the medication.

2. Continuation of Medication: Generally, if your doctor has prescribed a specific regimen for the induction of your period, it is advisable to follow that regimen unless instructed otherwise. If you experience any unusual symptoms or have concerns about the bleeding, you should contact your healthcare provider for guidance. They may advise you to continue taking the medication as prescribed or to stop based on your current symptoms.

3. Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of your bleeding. If it increases and resembles a typical menstrual flow, then it is likely that your period has started. However, if the bleeding is light and does not progress, it may be a side effect of the medication rather than a full menstrual period.

4. Consulting Your Doctor: Since you have already seen a gynecologist, it’s best to reach out to them with any concerns you have about the bleeding or the use of the medication. They can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and the specifics of your situation.

5. Understanding Side Effects: Some women may experience side effects from menstrual induction pills, including changes in bleeding patterns, mood swings, or other hormonal symptoms. If you find that the bleeding is accompanied by severe pain or other concerning symptoms, seek medical attention promptly.

In conclusion, while the small amount of blood you noticed could indicate the start of your period, it is also possible that it is a side effect of the medication. Continue to monitor your symptoms and follow your doctor's instructions regarding the use of the menstrual induction pills. If you have any doubts or if the situation changes, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

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