Menstrual Regulation Pills: Effects and Pregnancy Testing

Menstrual induction medication issues?

Hello doctor, my menstrual period started on August 16th, and I had intercourse on August 29th with withdrawal method.
My period was due on September 23rd but did not arrive.
I took a home pregnancy test and also went to the gynecology clinic for an abdominal ultrasound, which showed no pregnancy.
The doctor prescribed medication to induce menstruation for three days.
After finishing the medication, I experienced bleeding on September 29th, but the flow was light.
The bleeding lasted about five days and was accompanied by cramping in the lower abdomen and lower back pain.
Concerned about this, I took home pregnancy tests on October 7th and October 13th without using first morning urine, and both tests showed a single line.

1.
Can taking medication to induce menstruation cause a decrease in menstrual flow and shorten the duration of the period?
2.
Would not using first morning urine for the pregnancy test affect the results?
3.
Since I took home pregnancy tests on September 23rd, October 7th, and October 13th without using first morning urine, can I conclude that I am not pregnant?

123, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/14

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
Taking menstrual induction medication does not necessarily result in a decreased menstrual flow; it depends on the dosage of the medication and the hormonal status of the individual prior to administration.
2.
It is not necessary to use first morning urine for pregnancy testing.
3.
A pregnancy test conducted on October 13, which is 15 days after the time of intercourse, can be considered reliable, indicating that there is no pregnancy.
Sincerely, Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/10/14

More Info

When it comes to menstrual regulation pills and their effects on pregnancy testing, there are several important factors to consider. Let's break down your questions one by one.

1. Effects of Menstrual Regulation Pills on Menstrual Flow: Menstrual regulation pills, often referred to as "menstrual induction" or "abortion pills," can indeed affect the volume and duration of menstrual bleeding. These medications work by altering hormonal levels, which can lead to changes in the uterine lining and affect how your body responds during your menstrual cycle. It is not uncommon for women to experience lighter periods or shorter bleeding times after taking these medications. This is because the pills can thin the endometrial lining, leading to less tissue being shed during menstruation. If you notice a significant change in your menstrual pattern after taking these pills, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

2. Impact of Not Using Morning Urine for Pregnancy Testing: While using first morning urine is often recommended for pregnancy tests because it contains the highest concentration of the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), not using it does not necessarily invalidate the test results. However, testing at different times of the day may yield less reliable results, especially if the urine is diluted. If you suspect you might be pregnant, it's best to use first morning urine for the most accurate results. If you continue to receive negative results but still suspect pregnancy, consider retesting with first morning urine or consulting a healthcare professional.

3. Interpreting Pregnancy Test Results: If you have taken pregnancy tests on September 23, October 7, and October 13, and all results were negative, it is likely that you are not pregnant, especially if you have not used morning urine. Home pregnancy tests are generally very accurate when used correctly, particularly after a missed period. However, if you have any lingering doubts or symptoms that suggest pregnancy, such as persistent nausea or breast tenderness, it would be wise to consult with your healthcare provider for a blood test, which can detect pregnancy earlier and more accurately than home tests.

In summary, menstrual regulation pills can affect menstrual flow and duration, and while not using morning urine may impact the accuracy of home pregnancy tests, negative results over multiple tests generally indicate that you are not pregnant. If you have any concerns or unusual symptoms, it is always best to seek advice from a healthcare professional. They can provide personalized guidance based on your medical history and current situation.

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