Abnormal Bleeding After Menstrual Cycle Regulation

Abnormal bleeding

Hello, doctor.
In my last two menstrual cycles, I took medication to delay my period (because I needed to avoid my menstrual cycle for certain events).
Over the two months, I took the medication for a total of 20 days, which I obtained from the obstetrics and gynecology department.
This month, my first menstrual period after stopping the medication started on September 5th, and it felt quite normal, lasting about seven days.
However, on September 19th, I started experiencing some bleeding.
Initially, I thought it was ovulatory bleeding and didn't pay much attention to it, but the bleeding continued intermittently for two weeks.
At first, it was like spotting, but eventually, it resembled the flow at the beginning of a menstrual period.
Often, I would have some bleeding one day and none the next.
Later, I experienced significant lower abdominal pain and went to see an obstetrician.
The doctor mentioned that the thickness of my endometrium was 1.6 cm and prescribed progesterone for a week.
I would like to ask: 1.
Is this issue related to taking the medication to delay my period? 2.
Will the bleeding volume be significantly larger during my next menstrual cycle? 3.
Will this have any impact on my future ability to have children? Thank you, doctor.

fang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/09/30

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, based on your description, it seems that the abnormal bleeding is caused by luteal phase dysfunction.
Generally, progesterone supplementation is used for adjustment.
The causes are often related to factors such as constitution, lifestyle, emotions, stress, or changes in climate.
In principle, menstrual regulation medications should not cause this issue.
It may be due to recent events that have led to emotional or stress changes.
This phenomenon might persist for a while.
If you experience similar symptoms next week, you can consider progesterone adjustment and blood tests.
Thank you! Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2010/09/30

More Info

Abnormal bleeding after menstrual cycle regulation can be a concerning issue, especially after using medications to delay menstruation. In your case, it seems that you have taken medication to postpone your menstrual cycle for a total of 20 days over the last two months. Following the cessation of these medications, you experienced what appeared to be a normal menstrual period, but then you encountered irregular bleeding that lasted for two weeks, accompanied by abdominal pain.

1. Is the abnormal bleeding related to the use of menstrual delay medication?
Yes, the use of hormonal medications to delay menstruation can lead to changes in your menstrual cycle and may cause irregular bleeding. These medications often contain hormones that can affect the endometrial lining of the uterus. When you stop taking these medications, your body may take some time to readjust to its natural hormonal cycle, which can result in abnormal bleeding patterns. The thickening of the endometrial lining (1.6 cm in your case) could also contribute to this irregular bleeding, as a thicker lining may shed in an unpredictable manner.

2. Will the next menstrual period have a heavier flow?
It is possible that your next menstrual period could be heavier than usual. After hormonal manipulation, the body may respond with a more substantial shedding of the endometrial lining. However, this is not guaranteed, as individual responses to hormonal changes can vary widely. It is essential to monitor your symptoms and discuss any significant changes with your healthcare provider.

3. Will this affect future fertility?
Generally, using hormonal medications for menstrual regulation does not have a long-term impact on fertility. Most women can conceive normally after their cycles return to regularity. However, if you continue to experience irregular bleeding or other menstrual issues, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider. They may want to investigate further to rule out any underlying conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), fibroids, or other hormonal imbalances that could affect your reproductive health.

In addition to the above points, it is important to consider the following:
- Monitoring Symptoms: Keep track of your bleeding patterns, including the duration, flow, and any accompanying symptoms such as pain or discomfort. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider in determining the next steps in your care.

- Follow-Up Care: Since your doctor has prescribed progesterone (黄体素) for one week, it is essential to follow their instructions. This medication can help regulate your menstrual cycle and may assist in stabilizing the endometrial lining.

- Lifestyle Factors: Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and stress management, can positively influence your menstrual health. Additionally, avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can also be beneficial.

- Future Consultations: If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you have concerns about your menstrual health or fertility, do not hesitate to seek further evaluation from a gynecologist. They may recommend additional tests, such as an ultrasound or blood tests, to assess your hormonal levels and uterine health.

In conclusion, while the use of menstrual delay medication can lead to temporary irregularities in your menstrual cycle, these issues are often manageable and do not typically have long-term effects on fertility. However, ongoing communication with your healthcare provider is crucial to ensure your reproductive health remains on track.

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