The Impact of Medications on Menstruation: What to Avoid During Your Period

December 4, 2023

Hormonal Medications

The synthesis and metabolism balance of female hormones are closely related to the menstrual cycle. Therefore, hormonal medications should not be used during menstruation to avoid menstrual disorders. For example, androgens can cause decreased menstruation, amenorrhea, and irregular cycles, while progesterone can cause breast tenderness or irregular vaginal bleeding.

Topical Medications for the Treatment of Gynecological Infections

The use of vaginal washes, suppositories, effervescent tablets, etc. for the treatment of vaginal inflammation should be suspended. During menstruation, the uterine mucosa is congested, the cervical opening is relaxed, and there may be blood in the vagina, which is very suitable for bacterial growth and reproduction. If topical medications are used during this time, any slight carelessness could lead to bacteria invading the uterine cavity and endometrium.

Anticoagulant Medications

Anticoagulant medications can cause heavy menstrual flow or even excessive bleeding. They should be avoided during menstruation. Examples include coumarin, heparin, and thrombolytic agents.

Weight Loss Medications

Weight loss medications often contain appetite suppressants. If used during menstruation, they may cause menstrual disorders, increased urination or difficulty urinating, and symptoms such as palpitations and anxiety. In severe cases, amenorrhea may occur.

Traditional Chinese Medicines for Promoting Blood Circulation and Removing Blood Stasis

These types of medications not only have anticoagulant and anti-thrombotic effects but also dilate blood vessels and accelerate blood flow. Therefore, they can result in excessive menstrual flow.

Laxatives

Laxatives such as magnesium sulfate and sodium sulfate have strong laxative effects and can cause reflex pelvic congestion. Therefore, they should be avoided during menstruation. Other gastrointestinal motility drugs should also be used cautiously or avoided.

Thyroid Hormone Preparations

Thyroid hormone preparations can cause menstrual disorders. They should be prohibited during menstruation.

Hemostatic Medications

Hemostatic medications such as tranexamic acid and vitamin K can reduce the permeability of capillaries and induce their contraction, leading to poor menstrual blood flow. Additionally, caution should be exercised when using Chinese herbal medicines or over-the-counter medications with strong hemostatic effects.

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