Irregular Periods After Birth Control: When to Take a Pregnancy Test - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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After taking birth control pills for six months, the first month after stopping the medication is irregular?


Hello Doctor: Since August of last year, my menstrual cycle has been irregular, with a delay of over 40 days at that time.
I visited Cathay General Hospital and received two injections to induce menstruation.
After that, the doctor prescribed a 28-day cycle contraceptive pill to regulate my cycle, which I took for six months (I stopped in April).
During those six months, my menstrual cycle was very regular, occurring every 28 days.
According to this schedule, my period should have started on April 30 (the last period started on April 2).
However, today I am four days late.
My boyfriend and I have been sexually active, but he only ejaculated inside me around April 8 or 9.
I would like to ask the doctor when would be the best time to take a pregnancy test for accurate results.
Thank you for your response!

Danxin de ren, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/05/04

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Regarding the use of contraceptive pills to regulate menstruation, I stopped taking the medication in April.
My last menstrual period started on April 2, and I had intercourse with ejaculation around April 8 or 9.
Ovulation should not have occurred yet.
If I want to take a pregnancy test, it is recommended to wait at least three weeks after conception for a more accurate result.
It has been three weeks since April 8 until today.
Sincerely, Lu Lizheng.

Reply Date: 2005/05/04

More Info


When it comes to understanding irregular periods after using birth control and determining the best time to take a pregnancy test, several factors need to be considered. Based on your situation, it appears that you have a history of irregular menstrual cycles, which were regulated by hormonal birth control. After stopping the birth control in April, you are now experiencing a delay in your menstrual cycle, which can be concerning, especially if you have been sexually active.

First, let's address the timing of your menstrual cycle. You mentioned that your last menstrual period (LMP) was on April 2, and you expected your next period around April 30, which would align with a typical 28-day cycle. However, since you are now four days late, it is reasonable to consider the possibility of pregnancy, especially given that you have had unprotected intercourse.

In general, the best time to take a pregnancy test is after you have missed your period. Most home pregnancy tests are designed to detect the hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which is produced shortly after a fertilized egg attaches to the uterine lining. This hormone typically becomes detectable in urine about one week after a missed period. Therefore, if your period does not start soon, I would recommend waiting a few more days and then taking a pregnancy test. This will increase the likelihood of an accurate result.

If you decide to take a test now, keep in mind that testing too early can lead to a false negative result, especially if your body has not yet produced enough hCG. If you receive a negative result but still do not get your period, it would be wise to retest a few days later or consult with a healthcare provider for a blood test, which can detect pregnancy earlier and more accurately than a home test.

Additionally, since you have a history of irregular periods, it is important to consider that hormonal fluctuations can occur after stopping birth control. It is not uncommon for menstrual cycles to take some time to regulate after discontinuing hormonal contraceptives. Some women may experience delays or irregularities for several months as their bodies adjust to the natural hormonal cycle.

If you continue to experience irregularities or if your period does not return, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider. They can evaluate your situation more thoroughly, possibly perform blood tests to check hormone levels, and discuss other potential underlying issues that could be affecting your menstrual cycle.

In summary, the best time to take a pregnancy test is after you have missed your period, ideally waiting a week for the most accurate result. If you are still uncertain or if your menstrual irregularities persist, seeking medical advice is a prudent step to ensure your reproductive health is managed effectively.

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