Can discontinuation of long-term oral contraceptives delay periods?

Question

Hi doctor,

I have been taking Microgynon for seven years and I stopped taking it in last month this year. I had my 'withdrawal' bleeding after I stopped taking the pill. Exactly 28 days later, I experienced my natural period and it was regular for two months. This month, my periods were suppose to start yesterday and they have not come yet. I did a PG test and it is negative. Should I be worried my periods are going to be irregular? Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to iclinic.com

I understand your concern.

There are many other reasons for irregular periods which include strict diet, strenuous exercise, illness, hormonal imbalance, thyroid abnormalities, medications, and hormones. Instead of taking hormonal contraceptives, you still have been experiencing normal regular cycles. Just this cycle is not on the exact time as due. Check for irregular cycles and abnormal hair growth, and if any of these symptoms persist, I would suggest getting a blood investigation and transvaginal scan. You can have combined oral contraceptive pills for three months to regulate cycles. Wait for one to two weeks, then I would suggest getting menstrual induction, tablet Norethisterone 10 mg twice daily for seven days, then wait for one to two weeks for menstrual bleeding.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.