Post-Miscarriage Contraception: Hormonal Medications

Contraceptive pills after a miscarriage?

Hello Doctor: I have polycystic ovary syndrome and my menstrual cycle averages about 35 days.
I had a miscarriage on October 7 and underwent a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure.
The doctor prescribed anti-inflammatory medication for three days (to be taken three times a day) and a 7-day course of five pills of menstrual regulation medication (to be taken at bedtime).
After that, the doctor prescribed another 14 days of menstrual regulation medication (the same as the 7-day medication).
My period is expected to come within seven days after finishing the medication, and I need to return for a follow-up within five days of my period.
I have the following questions: 1.
Is this menstrual regulation medication a form of birth control? 2.
If I want to conceive, should I continue taking the menstrual regulation medication? 3.
If I stop taking the medication after the 21 days, will it affect the fetus if I become pregnant?

Lin En, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/18

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
Menstrual regulation medications are similar to contraceptive pills, as they both contain estrogen and progesterone; however, their compositions differ.

2.
Taking menstrual regulation medications should not affect future pregnancy outcomes.

3.
During the use of menstrual regulation medications, pregnancy is unlikely, so there should be no concerns regarding fetal effects.

4.
It is advisable to manage polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) first.
For instance, some individuals may develop PCOS due to weight factors, so it is recommended to achieve a healthy weight before attempting to conceive, as this can reduce the risk of miscarriage.

Respectfully, Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/10/18

More Info

After experiencing a miscarriage and undergoing a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure, it's crucial to understand the role of hormonal medications and their implications for future pregnancies. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Are these hormonal medications considered contraceptives?
The medications you were prescribed, often referred to as "regulating" or "menstrual" medications, may contain hormones that help restore your menstrual cycle after a miscarriage. Depending on the specific formulation, these medications can have contraceptive effects. If they contain estrogen and progestin, they can prevent ovulation, thereby acting as a contraceptive. However, their primary purpose in your case is likely to help regulate your menstrual cycle and ensure that your body returns to a normal hormonal state after the miscarriage. It’s important to clarify with your doctor whether the specific medications you are taking have contraceptive properties.

2. If you want to conceive, should you continue taking these medications?
If your goal is to become pregnant, you should discuss this with your healthcare provider. In many cases, if the medications are indeed contraceptive, you may need to stop taking them to allow for ovulation and conception. However, some hormonal treatments can be beneficial in regulating your cycle and preparing your body for pregnancy. Your doctor will provide guidance based on your specific situation, including your history of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and how it may affect your fertility.

3. What happens if you stop taking the medications after 21 days? Will it affect the fetus if you conceive?
If you stop taking the hormonal medications after completing the prescribed course, it typically should not have a negative impact on a future pregnancy. Most hormonal medications are designed to be temporary and help your body return to its natural cycle. If you conceive shortly after stopping the medication, the hormones from the medication will not remain in your system long enough to affect the developing fetus. However, it is essential to have a follow-up appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your plans for pregnancy and any concerns you may have.

Additional Considerations:
- Monitoring Your Cycle: After a miscarriage, it’s common for menstrual cycles to be irregular for a few months. Keeping track of your cycle can help you and your doctor understand when you might be ovulating, which is crucial for conception.

- Fertility and PCOS: Since you have polycystic ovary syndrome, it’s important to manage this condition as it can affect ovulation and fertility. Your doctor may recommend lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, or medications that can help regulate your menstrual cycle and improve your chances of conception.

- Emotional Well-being: Experiencing a miscarriage can be emotionally challenging. It’s important to seek support from healthcare providers, counselors, or support groups to help you navigate the emotional aspects of trying to conceive again.

- Consultation with a Specialist: If you have ongoing concerns about your menstrual cycle, fertility, or the effects of hormonal medications, consider consulting a reproductive endocrinologist or a fertility specialist. They can provide tailored advice and treatment options based on your individual health needs.

In summary, while the hormonal medications you are taking may have contraceptive properties, their primary role is likely to help regulate your menstrual cycle post-miscarriage. If you wish to conceive, it’s essential to communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your goals and any concerns you have regarding the medications. They can provide the best guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Similar Q&A

Pregnancy Concerns After Miscarriage: Medication Effects and Testing

I would like to ask about a miscarriage on November 12, and I haven't had my period for two months. I saw a doctor who prescribed medication on January 21, starting with three tablets of Femoston for two days, followed by five days of two tablets of Provera each day. During ...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, based on your description, it is necessary for a physician to arrange relevant tests and evaluations to determine if you are pregnant. If the medication mentioned has not been taken long-term, it should not have a significant impact. Thank you! Wishing you peace and health...

Understanding Hormonal Medications: Uses and Potential Side Effects

Hello Dr. Tian, On January 2nd, I underwent a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure for an 8-week missed abortion. Since I have not completely expelled the tissue, I returned for a follow-up on January 16th, where an ultrasound indicated that there is still some blood and f...

Dr. Tian Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
In this situation, the administration of estrogen should be aimed at repairing the endometrium.

Post-Miscarriage Concerns: Uterine Contraction Medications and Fertility

1. After a miscarriage with a beta hCG level of 5.8, is it safe to continue taking uterotonics? I am concerned that if the level does not drop below 5, my next menstrual cycle may not come. 2. Do uterotonics affect the timing of ovulation? 3. Although there is a history of inf...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, contraction medications do not affect ovulation timing; observation is recommended. Generally, infertility is defined as having regular sexual intercourse for over a year without conception. If there are any discomforts, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist. Wishing y...

Understanding Post-Miscarriage Fertility: Can Medications Affect Conception?

I would like to ask, I had a miscarriage a little over a month ago, and three weeks later, I experienced something that I’m not sure is my period, as the flow is not right and it’s all brown. The doctor performed an ultrasound and said it doesn’t look like a menstrual period is c...

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. Hormonal therapy may affect the results of ovulation test strips. 2. Unless undergoing infertility treatment, the use of hormonal medications is not recommended during the preconception period.