Irregular Periods: Causes and What to Expect

Irregular menstruation

On September 11, there was some sexual activity, but penetration was not complete; it felt like only the tip was inserted.
After the male partner went in a little, he felt the urge to ejaculate and withdrew immediately.
On September 12, I took emergency contraception.
My expected menstrual period was on September 20, but it did not arrive.
On the morning of September 21, I felt nauseous and vomited, and this discomfort lasted for about two days.
On September 23, I visited a doctor who performed a pregnancy test that came back negative.
The doctor then conducted an ultrasound and prescribed medication to induce menstruation (for five days).
I started taking the medication on September 24, and after finishing it, I experienced abdominal pain on October 3, which marked the start of my period.
On October 7, the first day of my period showed red blood, but afterward, it was mostly a small amount of brown and light red discharge.
When I called the clinic, they said this was normal since the medication induced my period, not a regular menstrual cycle.
On October 18, I took a home pregnancy test, which also came back negative.

I would like to know when I can expect my period in November.
Recently, I have been experiencing mild abdominal pain, which feels like menstrual cramps, but my period has not started.
According to my menstrual tracking app, my November period was due on November 5.
After using the restroom, I noticed a small amount of red discharge.
Does this indicate that my period is about to start?

Lin Er, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/08

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
Due to irregular menstruation, it is difficult to predict the menstrual date for November.

2.
The current bleeding may still be irregular menstrual bleeding.

Respectfully, Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/11/08

More Info

Understanding irregular periods can be quite complex, as they can be influenced by a variety of factors including hormonal fluctuations, stress, lifestyle changes, and even recent medical interventions. In your case, it seems that there are several elements at play that could be affecting your menstrual cycle.

First, let's break down the timeline you've provided. You had an encounter on September 11, which was followed by taking emergency contraception (the "morning-after pill") on September 12. This medication is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse and can cause changes in your menstrual cycle. It is not uncommon for women to experience irregularities in their periods after taking emergency contraception, including delayed menstruation or changes in flow.

Your expected period was on September 20, but it did not arrive until October 3, which is a significant delay. The fact that you experienced some nausea and vomiting around September 21 could also indicate hormonal changes or stress, which can further disrupt your cycle. When you visited the doctor and had an ultrasound, it was likely to rule out any complications or confirm that there was no pregnancy, which you mentioned was negative.

When your period finally came on October 3, it was induced by medication, which is why it may not have been a typical menstrual flow. The presence of red blood followed by brownish discharge is also common after taking hormonal medications, as the body may not shed the uterine lining in the same way it would during a natural cycle.

Now, regarding your question about when to expect your November period, it is important to note that after taking hormonal medications, your cycle may take some time to regulate itself. If your app indicated that your period was due on November 5, and you are experiencing some premenstrual symptoms (like mild cramping), it is possible that your period could be approaching. The slight spotting you observed could indeed be an early sign of menstruation, but it is also possible that your body is still adjusting to the hormonal changes from the previous month.

In general, after taking emergency contraception, it may take a few cycles for your menstrual cycle to return to its regular pattern. If your period does not arrive within a week of the expected date, or if you continue to experience irregularities, it would be wise to consult with your healthcare provider. They can offer further evaluation and guidance, especially if you have concerns about your menstrual health or potential underlying conditions.

In summary, irregular periods can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes from medications like emergency contraception. Your body may still be adjusting, and it is not uncommon for cycles to be irregular for a few months after such an event. Keep track of your symptoms, and if you have any concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

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