Irregular Periods and Cervical Inflammation: Key Questions Answered

Cervical smear inflammation and irregular menstruation?

Hello Doctor: Last month on November 23, I experienced a sudden decrease in menstrual flow.
I visited a gynecologist on December 4, and after an abdominal ultrasound, the doctor said that the low menstrual flow was not a concern?! On that day, I also had a Pap smear, and on December 23, I received the report indicating inflammation.
Since my menstrual period returned on December 12, I went back to the gynecologist, who performed a transvaginal ultrasound and said that I might be experiencing irregular menstruation! The doctor prescribed three medications: blood tests, progesterone, and a medication called Yidexin to take for a week to help regulate my cycle.
After my follow-up visit on December 24, the doctor prescribed a week’s worth of vaginal suppositories.
After using them for three days, my period started on December 26, so I temporarily stopped using the suppositories and plan to finish them after my period ends.
I would like to ask the doctor the following questions:
1.
After completing the suppository treatment, is it necessary to return for a follow-up visit?
2.
Is irregular menstruation related to cervical inflammation, or could it be due to my age and the onset of menopausal symptoms?
3.
Can cervical inflammation cause menstrual difficulties?
4.
Due to my irregular periods, I started tracking my basal body temperature and found that my high-temperature phase lasts less than 10 days.
Could this be due to insufficient progesterone, leading to my periods often starting early? If my early periods are due to low progesterone, will taking medication to regulate my cycle have side effects?
5.
Can an unstable endometrium also cause bleeding? (I had a bleeding episode last year due to unstable endometrium.)
I appreciate your answers to these questions.
Thank you!

Sandy, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/30

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
There is a need.

2.
It's okay; irregular menstruation and menopause are not absolutely related and can occur at any age.

3.
No.

4.
The luteal phase is still one of the reasons; taking menstrual regulation medication will not have side effects.

5.
Yes.

Reply Date: 2015/12/30

More Info

Understanding irregular periods and cervical inflammation can be complex, especially when considering the interplay of hormonal changes, inflammation, and potential underlying conditions. Let’s address your questions one by one.

1. Follow-up After Using Suppositories: It is generally advisable to have a follow-up appointment after completing a course of vaginal suppositories. This allows your healthcare provider to assess the effectiveness of the treatment and determine if further intervention is necessary. If you notice any unusual symptoms or if your condition does not improve, you should definitely schedule an earlier appointment.

2. Relationship Between Irregular Periods and Cervical Inflammation: Irregular menstrual cycles can be influenced by various factors, including hormonal imbalances, stress, and underlying medical conditions. Cervical inflammation, or cervicitis, can be a result of infections or irritations, but it is not typically a direct cause of menstrual irregularities. However, chronic inflammation can sometimes affect the hormonal balance in the body, potentially leading to irregular cycles. Your age may also play a role, as perimenopause can begin in the late 30s to early 40s, leading to changes in menstrual patterns.

3. Impact of Cervical Inflammation on Menstrual Cycles: While cervical inflammation itself is not a common cause of menstrual difficulties, it can contribute to discomfort during menstruation or other symptoms that might make it seem like your periods are irregular. If the inflammation is due to an infection, treating the infection may help restore normal menstrual function.

4. Basal Body Temperature and Luteal Phase Deficiency: A short luteal phase (the time between ovulation and the start of your period) can indeed be a sign of insufficient progesterone, which is produced by the corpus luteum after ovulation. If your luteal phase is consistently less than 10 days, it may indicate a luteal phase defect, which can lead to early menstruation. Medications such as progesterone can help regulate your cycle, but they may also have side effects, including mood changes, bloating, and breast tenderness. It’s essential to discuss these potential side effects with your doctor.

5. Instability of the Endometrium and Bleeding: An unstable endometrium can lead to irregular bleeding. This instability can be caused by hormonal imbalances, such as insufficient progesterone or estrogen dominance. If you have experienced abnormal bleeding in the past due to endometrial instability, it’s crucial to monitor your menstrual patterns and discuss any changes with your healthcare provider.

In summary, your irregular periods may be influenced by a combination of cervical inflammation, hormonal changes, and possibly the onset of perimenopause. It’s essential to maintain open communication with your healthcare provider, follow their recommendations for treatment, and keep track of your symptoms. If you have any concerns about the medications prescribed or if your symptoms persist, do not hesitate to reach out for further evaluation. Regular monitoring and adjustments to your treatment plan can help manage your symptoms effectively.

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