Impact of Taking Pills to Delay Menstruation on Early Pregnancy

Took Silymarin during early pregnancy?

My normal menstrual period is due on the 19th, but since I am traveling abroad on the 21st, I took a pill to delay my period.
I started taking one pill every night from the evening of the 12th, but my period has not arrived yet.
I took a pregnancy test and found out I am pregnant! Will this affect the fetus? My menstrual cycle is usually very regular, and I only took the pill to delay my period for my trip.

Ni Ke, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/01

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, generally, oral contraceptives should be started on the fifth day of your menstrual cycle.
Your method of taking them does not provide contraceptive protection.
Birth control pills primarily affect the reproductive system of the fetus, especially in female embryos.
If the medication you are taking is not significant, the impact is relatively small.
However, if you still have concerns, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/03/01

More Info

Taking hormonal contraceptive pills, such as the one you mentioned (likely a combination of estrogen and progestin), to delay menstruation can raise concerns when a woman discovers she is pregnant shortly after starting the medication. The primary concern revolves around the potential effects of these hormones on the developing fetus, especially during the early stages of pregnancy.

When hormonal contraceptives are taken during early pregnancy, the impact on the fetus can vary. Research indicates that the use of combined oral contraceptives does not significantly increase the risk of major congenital malformations. However, there are some considerations to keep in mind. The hormones in these pills can potentially affect the development of the fetus, particularly if taken during the critical periods of organogenesis, which occurs in the first trimester. Some studies suggest that exposure to high doses of estrogen and progestin can lead to issues such as genital abnormalities in male fetuses, but these cases are relatively rare.

If you have taken the pill for a short duration and have since discovered your pregnancy, it is essential to stop taking the contraceptive immediately. The body will begin to adjust to the natural hormonal environment necessary for maintaining the pregnancy. It is also crucial to consult with your healthcare provider to discuss your situation. They may recommend an early ultrasound to assess the health of the pregnancy and ensure that everything is developing as it should.

In addition to the potential effects of the hormones, it is also important to consider the psychological aspect of discovering a pregnancy while on contraceptives. Many women may experience anxiety or stress about the potential implications for their baby’s health. It is vital to address these feelings and seek support from healthcare professionals who can provide reassurance and guidance.

Furthermore, if you have a history of regular menstrual cycles and only took the pill to delay your period for travel, it is possible that your body may respond well to the cessation of the medication. Many women have healthy pregnancies after brief exposure to hormonal contraceptives, and the body is often capable of compensating for any temporary hormonal imbalance.

In summary, while there are potential risks associated with taking hormonal contraceptives during early pregnancy, the overall evidence suggests that the risks of significant harm to the fetus are low, especially if the exposure was brief. It is crucial to stop taking the pills and consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice and monitoring throughout your pregnancy. Regular prenatal care will help ensure the best possible outcomes for both you and your baby.

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