Menstrual Induction: Is Pain After Medication Normal?

Menstrual induction medication issues?

On July 13, I went to the obstetrics and gynecology department to check why my period hadn't come.
A urine test showed I wasn't pregnant, so the doctor prescribed me a three-day course of medication to induce menstruation.
However, I only took the medication at noon and night, so I finished it by July 17.
Then, on July 20, I initially noticed brown spotting, which was followed by a heavy flow of bright red blood.
I experienced severe abdominal pain, lower back pain, and diarrhea, similar to my usual menstrual symptoms, but the abdominal pain was significantly worse than usual.
Is this normal, or should I get it checked? Does taking medication to induce menstruation typically result in more pain? (On July 20, I had a medicinal soup with pork, could the heatiness be a reason for this, or is it possible that it contained herbs that promote blood circulation?)

CHANG, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/21

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The formation of menstruation requires the action of female hormones and progesterone to ensure the regular growth of the endometrium.
Once the endometrium sheds, menstruation occurs.
Typically, patients with irregular menstruation experience anovulation, which means the ovaries do not release an egg, leading to the absence of a corpus luteum and consequently no secretion of progesterone.
As a result, the endometrium lacks the stabilizing effect of progesterone, leading to irregular shedding and consequently irregular menstruation, which may vary in volume and may result in prolonged bleeding.
Therefore, the active ingredient in menstrual induction medications is progesterone.
Supplementing with progesterone can stabilize the growth of the endometrium, leading to more regular menstruation.
However, you may not be taking the medication consistently, or there may be insufficient progesterone supplementation, or interference from traditional Chinese medicine, which may prevent you from achieving the desired effects of menstrual regulation.

Sincerely,
Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital

Reply Date: 2015/07/21

More Info

It sounds like you are experiencing significant discomfort after taking medication to induce menstruation. Let's break down your situation and address your concerns regarding the pain and symptoms you are experiencing.

Firstly, it's important to understand that menstrual induction medications, such as those you were prescribed, can indeed lead to increased cramping and discomfort. These medications work by altering hormone levels to trigger the shedding of the uterine lining, which can result in symptoms similar to those experienced during a regular menstrual cycle, but often more intense. The pain you are feeling in your abdomen and lower back, as well as the gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, can be attributed to the hormonal changes and the physical process of menstruation being initiated.

The fact that you experienced a change in the color and flow of your menstrual blood—from brown spotting to bright red—indicates that your body is responding to the medication. Brown blood typically signifies older blood that has taken longer to exit the uterus, while bright red blood is fresh and indicates active bleeding. This transition is common during the onset of menstruation.

Regarding your question about whether the pain is normal, it is not uncommon for individuals to experience more intense cramping when using medication to induce menstruation compared to their usual menstrual cycles. However, if the pain is significantly worse than what you typically experience, or if it is accompanied by other concerning symptoms such as heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad every hour), fever, or severe dizziness, it would be advisable to seek medical attention. These could be signs of complications such as an infection or other issues that may require further evaluation.

As for your dietary choices, consuming foods that are considered "heaty" or "damp" in traditional Chinese medicine, such as certain meats or spices, can sometimes exacerbate feelings of discomfort during menstruation. However, the primary cause of your symptoms is likely the hormonal changes induced by the medication rather than your diet. If you suspect that certain foods may be affecting your symptoms, it might be worth monitoring your diet and discussing it with a healthcare provider.

In summary, while some increased pain and discomfort can be expected after taking menstrual induction medication, it is essential to listen to your body. If your symptoms feel unusually severe or if you have any concerns about your health, do not hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for further assessment. They can help determine whether what you are experiencing is within the normal range or if additional intervention is necessary. Always prioritize your health and well-being, and don't hesitate to seek help when needed.

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