Periods irregularities after contraceptive pill - #11297
I'm 18 and will turn 19 in September 2025. I don't know what is happening with my body..my periods have always been regular since they first started – usually 10-15 days late but consistent every month. On May 1st I was intimate and took an emergency pill (Unwanted 72) the next day. In June I got withdrawal bleeding. In July my period came but the flow was extremely light like my pad wasn't even spotted much. In August, since my date had already passed (around Aug 15th), I took progesterone tablets suggested by my relative (she had been prescribed them by a doctor). After a few days of taking them, bleeding started(28th Aug) the flow is still very less but comparatively it's a bit more than (just a more) the past month but yet my pad is not filling maybe just 25% in a whole day but when I pee most of the blood with mucus comes out( today 29 Aug- my second day)..Now I’m confused if this is my natural period or withdrawal bleeding due to the medicine. My cycle feels irregular since then, which never happened before. For context, my height is 157 cm and weight around 80 kg (I have been eating a lot of junk too) and due to this gain a lot of weight too. I took a pregnancy test and it was negative too. Please tell me what is wrong with me.
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Doctors’ responses
This bleeding on 28 Aug is withdrawal bleeding from progesterone, not your natural cycle. Your irregularity and scanty periods are due to hormonal disturbance + weight gain. The good news: pregnancy is ruled out. Focus should be on weight control and hormonal evaluation.
Thank you doctor 🙏 I’ll work on lifestyle changes. Just 2 doubts—should I do tests now (thyroid, prolactin, PCOS check) or wait a few cycles? Also, do I count 28th Aug bleeding as Day 1 of my cycle?
Due to unwanted 72 suddenly your hormone levels were disturbed and progesterone tablet also caused the same As it takes 2-4 cycle to get your hormones in balance it will take time
I would suggest to control weight avoid junk food,do yoga and excercise and keep hydrated
For the clot it was due to progesterone pills causing thickening of blood, kindly don’t take it without consultation as it is harmful and can cause blood related issue
Instead I would suggest you to practice protection as it will help you avoiding hormonal pills intake
Take ashokarisht 2 tsp in lukewarm water at night to regulate your period
Thank you doctor 🙏 I’ll work on lifestyle changes. Just 2 doubts—should I do tests now (thyroid, prolactin, PCOS check) or wait a few cycles? Also, do I count 28th Aug bleeding as Day 1 of my cycle?
You can count 28 as your first day but keep track of your cycle through app rather than manually
You can get it checked in next cycle as for now your hormones are mess rn it can give false positive
Irregularities in your menstrual cycle can indeed occur after taking emergency contraception. The active ingredients in these pills work by delaying ovulation or preventing a fertilized egg from implanting, which can disrupt your regular cycle. The lighter or different bleeding you’re experiencing could be a combination of temporary changes due to the emergency pill, as well as the progesterone tablets you’ve taken. Progesterone can induce what’s known as withdrawal bleeding, and this can sometimes be mistaken for a natural period. This often resolves itself as the hormonal influences subside over time. However, you should be strategic moving forward.
First, consider eliminating external influences that might be contributing to this irregularity, like starting or stopping medications. Also, bear in mind that your weight and dietary habits can impact hormonal balance and menstrual regularity. Eating a high amount of junk food contributes to weight fluctuations that may affect your period. While a single negative pregnancy test is generally a reliable indicator, it might be worth repeating to be absolutely certain, especially if taken very early or not according to instructions.
To start addressing these irregularities, focus on maintaining a balanced diet and a consistent exercise routine that helps manage your weight, as gradual weight loss can often help regulate your menstrual cycle. Additionally, you should consult with a healthcare professional about your irregular periods, especially if it continues over several cycles. They may suggest a pelvic ultrasound or hormonal blood tests to further assess for any underlying issues like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or thyroid dysfunction, which can sometimes appear around your age.
Monitor your symptom pattern; if you notice heavy bleeding, intense pain, or any new issues, seek immediate medical attention. Consider avoiding self-prescribing medications like progesterone without appropriate hormonal evaluation, as this can complicate or mask other conditions. Instead, start with a healthcare consultation to understand your body’s unique situation, implementing recommended guidance and treatments from your doctor will be more effective in managing your menstrual health.
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