Is there any way to delay menstruation?
Oct 27, 2022
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Chen Zhe
Introduction
Women who wish to delay their menstruation can visit the gynecology department at a hospital about two weeks before their expected period and take prescribed progestin medications as directed by a doctor. These hormones keep the endometrium in the secretory phase, preventing its shedding and thereby postponing menstruation. When progestin use is stopped, the body's progesterone levels drop, leading to endometrial shedding and bleeding, effectively delaying the onset of the menstrual period.
"Menses" refers to menstruation. There are several methods to delay menstruation, including oral medications and intravenous drug administration. Specific methods are as follows.
1. Oral Medications
Women who wish to postpone their period can visit a gynecologist approximately two weeks before the expected onset of menstruation and take progestin medications orally as directed by a physician. These hormones maintain the endometrium in the secretory phase, preventing its shedding and thereby delaying menstruation. Once progestin use is discontinued, progesterone levels in the body drop, leading to endometrial shedding and bleeding, effectively postponing the menstrual period. It is important to emphasize that medication must be taken strictly under medical supervision. Individuals who are allergic to the medication components, have unexplained vaginal bleeding, progestin-dependent tumors, severe liver dysfunction, or are pregnant should not take these medications.
2. Intravenous Infusion
To delay menstruation, progestin medications may also be administered via intramuscular injection about one week before the expected period, continuing until the desired time to resume menstruation, at which point the medication is stopped. Withdrawal bleeding typically occurs within 5–7 days after discontinuation. Note that this method is contraindicated for patients with impaired liver or kidney function, thromboembolic disorders, missed abortion, heart disease, or edema.
Before attempting to delay menstruation, women should undergo a gynecological internal examination and transvaginal ultrasound at a hospital. Medication or infusion should only be administered under a doctor's guidance. During the menstrual period, it is advisable to avoid spicy, stimulating, raw, or cold foods to prevent discomfort such as abdominal pain.
