What medication can be taken to delay menstruation?
Jun 25, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
Introduction
In general, to delay menstruation, medications such as desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol tablets, drospirenone-ethinyl estradiol tablets, progesterone capsules, dydrogesterone tablets, or medroxyprogesterone acetate tablets may be taken under medical guidance. If any discomfort occurs, prompt medical consultation is recommended. To avoid unnecessary harm to the body, it is advisable to use or discontinue these medications only under the supervision of a qualified physician.
In general, medications such as desogestrel-ethinyl estradiol tablets, drospirenone-ethinyl estradiol tablets, progesterone capsules, dydrogesterone tablets, and medroxyprogesterone acetate tablets may be taken under medical guidance to delay menstruation. If any discomfort occurs, prompt medical consultation is recommended. Specific analysis is as follows:
1. Desogestrel-Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets: This medication alters the body's natural levels of estrogen and progestin, preventing the endometrium from shedding and bleeding on schedule, thereby delaying the onset of menstruation.
2. Drospirenone-Ethinyl Estradiol Tablets: These tablets maintain the endometrium in a secretory state, changing its natural shedding time, thus effectively postponing menstruation.
3. Progesterone Capsules: As a hormonal medication, progesterone causes continuous thickening of the endometrium during use. Once discontinued, the endometrium sheds and thins, resulting in bleeding—i.e., menstrual flow. To delay menstruation, these are typically started about one week before the expected period.
4. Dydrogesterone Tablets: This is a progestin agent that can also delay menstruation. It is recommended to start taking the tablets five days before the expected onset of menstruation and continue until the desired date for menstruation, at which point the medication should be stopped. Menstruation usually begins 3–7 days after discontinuation. The medication should not be interrupted during use, as this may lead to early onset of menstruation.
5. Medroxyprogesterone Acetate Tablets: This is a progestin-like drug. After administration, it changes the body's progesterone levels, causing the endometrium to thicken under hormonal influence, thereby achieving the goal of delaying menstruation. However, long-term use is not recommended, as it may disrupt hormonal balance and lead to adverse effects such as menstrual irregularities and facial acne.
It is advised to use the above medications only under the supervision of a qualified physician. During medication, maintain healthy lifestyle habits and avoid consuming spicy or irritating foods such as pepper, chili, and garlic, which may interfere with drug efficacy or hinder recovery.
