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Birth control pills taken for regularizing period causing sporadic periods. Why?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I have been having very irregular periods since I began getting them. I have been on birth control to help manage and track them, but as of recently, I have been having more sporadic periods. For instance, from the beginning of January through the end of February, the pill I was on was no longer helping and I was on my period for two weeks at a time with five days gap in between each period. And I have been experiencing more intense cramps during my period that start in my lower abdomen and extend through to my butt. If I had to describe it, it feels like a stabbing pain from my belly button straight through my body to butt if that makes sense. I am 19 years old and I have never been to a gynecologist. Please help.

Answered by Dr. Vidya Ramasamy

Education:

MS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vidya Ramasamy is an Obstetrician and Gynecologist specializing in infertility treatment. Her skills include managing complex infertility cases, performing assisted reproductive techniques such as IVF and IUI, evaluating hormonal and reproductive health, and providing preconception counseling. She is also experienced in managing high-risk pregnancies, gynecological surgeries, menstrual disorders, and hormonal therapies, offering personalized care to support women’s reproductive health and fertility goals.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to iclinq.com.

I can understand your concern and what you are going through is a hormonal problem. The regularity gradually sets in with maturation of the HPO (hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian) axis ( as you grow older), and the treatment of choice is hormonal pills. The possibilities of your problem despite pills maybe

1) Missing pills in between.

2) Taking pills not on time (these two are the most common causes for such a scenario).

3) Dose of the pill may not be enough.

However, as you are complaining of severe pain, have an in-person gynecologist opinion. USG (ultrasound) abdomen is done to rule out uterine, and ovarian pathology. Nothing big to worry about and continue with hematinics. I hope this helps.

The Probable causes

Hormonal.

Investigations to be done

USG abdomen and pelvis, Hb.

Differential diagnosis

Uterine/ Ovarian causes.

Probable diagnosis

Hormonal.

Treatment plan

OCP (oral contraceptive pills) after the scan.

Preventive measures

Excess weight gain can alter your cycle, so concentrate on weight reduction and iron-rich diet.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Vinodhini J.
Published At May 16, 2020
Reviewed At August 31, 2023

Education:

MS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vidya Ramasamy is an Obstetrician and Gynecologist specializing in infertility treatment. Her skills include managing complex infertility cases, performing assisted reproductive techniques such as IVF and IUI, evaluating hormonal and reproductive health, and providing preconception counseling. She is also experienced in managing high-risk pregnancies, gynecological surgeries, menstrual disorders, and hormonal therapies, offering personalized care to support women’s reproductive health and fertility goals.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vinodhini J. is a Dental Surgeon with extensive years of clinical experience. She specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of dental and oral health issues, including restorative, surgical, and cosmetic procedures. With a patient-centered approach, she focuses on maintaining oral health, alleviating discomfort, and enhancing smiles. Her expertise ensures comprehensive care tailored to each patient’s dental needs and overall wellbeing.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

MS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Vidya Ramasamy is an Obstetrician and Gynecologist specializing in infertility treatment. Her skills include managing complex infertility cases, performing assisted reproductive techniques such as IVF and IUI, evaluating hormonal and reproductive health, and providing preconception counseling. She is also experienced in managing high-risk pregnancies, gynecological surgeries, menstrual disorders, and hormonal therapies, offering personalized care to support women’s reproductive health and fertility goals.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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