Missed Period After Taking Menstrual Induction Pills: What to Do? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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After taking menstrual induction medication, my period has not arrived?


Hello doctor, I have been experiencing irregular menstruation for a long time.
In mid-June, I went to a large hospital for an ultrasound and blood tests, which confirmed that I have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and a thickened uterine lining.
The doctor prescribed me ten tablets of Estrofem and ten tablets of Medroxyprogesterone to induce menstruation, instructing me to take one of each in the morning and evening, and to start taking Diane-35 birth control pills for cycle regulation after my period arrives.
I took the medications from June 21 to June 30.
Since then, I have occasionally felt abdominal pain, my gastrointestinal health has been poor with multiple episodes of abdominal pain and diarrhea, and I have also experienced breast tenderness.
However, my period has not arrived as of July 4.
During this time, I had unprotected sexual intercourse with ejaculation on June 28 and 29.
I would like to inquire if the absence of my period could be due to a possible pregnancy from those two days? Should I take a pregnancy test now, or should I wait a bit longer for my period to arrive? If my period does not come, do I need to return to the doctor for a follow-up?

Hsu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/07/05

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, taking birth control pills will prevent pregnancy.
Normally, your period should come within a week after finishing the pills, so just wait and see.
Wishing you good health!

Reply Date: 2023/07/05

More Info


If you have missed your period after taking menstrual induction pills, it is important to take a systematic approach to understand the situation and determine the next steps. Based on your description, you have a history of irregular menstruation and have been diagnosed with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and thickened uterine lining. You were prescribed medication to induce menstruation, but your period has not arrived as expected.

First, let's address the possibility of pregnancy. Since you had unprotected sexual intercourse on June 28 and 29, there is a chance that you could be pregnant, especially if you ovulated during that time. The menstrual induction pills you took may not have been effective in triggering a period if you were already pregnant. It is advisable to take a home pregnancy test (HPT) to check for pregnancy. These tests are generally reliable and can provide results as early as the first day of your missed period. If the test is positive, you should schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and prenatal care.

If the pregnancy test is negative and your period still does not arrive, it is essential to consider other factors that could be affecting your menstrual cycle. Stress, changes in weight, and hormonal imbalances can all contribute to missed periods, especially in individuals with PCOS. The abdominal pain and gastrointestinal discomfort you are experiencing could also be related to hormonal fluctuations or the medications you have taken.

In the case that your period does not come after a few days, or if you continue to experience discomfort, it would be wise to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may want to perform additional tests, such as blood tests to check hormone levels or an ultrasound to assess the condition of your ovaries and uterine lining. This follow-up is particularly important given your history of PCOS and the medications you have been taking.

Additionally, if you are experiencing significant abdominal pain or any other concerning symptoms, such as heavy bleeding or severe discomfort, you should seek medical attention promptly. These could be signs of complications that require immediate care.

In summary, here are the steps you should consider taking:
1. Take a Home Pregnancy Test: If you have missed your period, this is the first step to determine if you might be pregnant.

2. Monitor Symptoms: Keep track of any additional symptoms you may experience, such as pain, changes in bowel habits, or unusual discharge.

3. Follow Up with Your Doctor: If your period does not arrive within a week or if you have any concerning symptoms, make an appointment with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

4. Consider Lifestyle Factors: Reflect on any recent changes in your life that may be affecting your menstrual cycle, such as stress, diet, or exercise.

Remember, it is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health. If you have any doubts or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

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