Delayed Menstruation and Prolonged Bleeding: What to Do?

If your period was late for more than two weeks and has now lasted for almost two weeks without stopping, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional. They can evaluate your symptoms, perform any necessary tests, and determine the underlying cause of the prolonged menstruation. Possible causes could include hormonal imbalances, stress, or other medical conditions that may require treatment?

Hello Doctor, my menstrual cycle has always been regular, occasionally delayed by a few days, and lasts about 6-7 days.
However, this time my period was over two weeks late.
When it finally started, it was initially a small amount of brown (dark brown) discharge for about 2-3 days, then it transitioned to a normal flow with some blood clots.
After 8 days, the flow decreased back to the previous small amount of brown discharge.
Then on the 10th day, the flow suddenly increased significantly with blood clots, and now on the 13th day, my period still hasn't ended.
What could be causing this? Two weeks prior to this situation, I underwent a minimally invasive hemorrhoid surgery.
Could the delay in my period and the prolonged bleeding be related to the hemorrhoid surgery? Should I see a gynecologist for an examination? I am very worried...
Thank you for your help in clarifying this.

Wenwen, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/08

Dr. Chen Zhiyu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

It is recommended to visit the obstetrics and gynecology outpatient clinic for evaluation.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2023/08/08

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing some concerning changes in your menstrual cycle, which can understandably cause anxiety. Let's break down your situation and explore the potential reasons behind your delayed menstruation and prolonged bleeding.

Firstly, it is important to note that menstrual cycles can be influenced by a variety of factors, including stress, hormonal imbalances, changes in weight, and medical procedures. Given that you recently underwent a minimally invasive procedure for hemorrhoids, it is possible that the stress of the surgery, along with any associated physical stress or changes in your body, could have contributed to the irregularities in your menstrual cycle.

The fact that your period was delayed for over two weeks before starting, and then presented with unusual characteristics (brown discharge initially, followed by heavy bleeding with clots), is noteworthy. Brown discharge often indicates older blood, which can be common at the beginning or end of a menstrual period. However, the sudden increase in flow and the presence of clots can be concerning, especially since you mentioned that the bleeding has continued for 13 days.

There are several potential explanations for your symptoms:
1. Hormonal Changes: After any surgical procedure, your body may experience hormonal fluctuations. These changes can affect your menstrual cycle, leading to delays and variations in flow.

2. Uterine Response: The stress of surgery can sometimes cause the uterus to react in unexpected ways, leading to prolonged bleeding or changes in the menstrual pattern.

3. Underlying Conditions: Conditions such as fibroids, polyps, or other uterine abnormalities can cause heavy bleeding and prolonged periods. If these were present before your surgery, they might have been exacerbated by the procedure.

4. Infection or Complications: Although less common, any surgical procedure carries a risk of infection or complications that could affect your menstrual cycle. If you experience any additional symptoms such as fever, severe pain, or unusual discharge, it would be important to seek medical attention promptly.

Given your situation, it is advisable to consult with a gynecologist. They can perform a thorough evaluation, including a physical examination and possibly imaging studies, to determine the cause of your prolonged bleeding. They may also check for any signs of infection or other complications related to your recent surgery.

In the meantime, here are some steps you can take to manage your symptoms:
- Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of the flow, any clots, and any additional symptoms you may experience. This information will be helpful for your healthcare provider.

- Stay Hydrated: Ensure you are drinking plenty of fluids, especially if you are experiencing heavy bleeding.

- Rest: Give your body time to recover from both the surgery and the menstrual irregularities.

- Pain Management: If you experience discomfort, over-the-counter pain relievers may help, but consult with your doctor before taking any new medications.

In conclusion, while it is possible that your recent hemorrhoid surgery may have contributed to the changes in your menstrual cycle, it is essential to seek a professional evaluation to rule out any serious underlying conditions. Your health and well-being are paramount, and a healthcare provider can offer the best guidance tailored to your specific situation.

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