Menstrual Induction Medications to Treat Irregular Periods

Missed Your Period Do You Need Medication to Induce Menstruation

Medications to induce menstruation are often used to help regulate delayed periods, typically caused by hormonal imbalances in the body. In addition to facilitating menstrual flow, these medications can also play a role in alleviating pain during menstruation (dysmenorrhea). Menstrual induction medications are available in various forms, including over-the-counter (OTC) options and those requiring a doctor’s prescription.

However, delayed or irregular menstruation does not always indicate pregnancy. This condition is often influenced by other factors, such as excessive stress, lack of rest, strenuous physical activity, or certain medical conditions affecting hormonal balance, one of which is Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS).

Do Mothers Need to Take Menstrual Induction Medication?

For Mothers experiencing delayed or irregular periods, it is natural to ask: is it necessary to take medication to induce menstruation? Especially if Mothers are currently undergoing pregnancy planning (promil or Trying to Conceive/TTC), the menstrual cycle serves as a key indicator of reproductive health and fertility.

However, not all cases of irregular menstruation require immediate pharmacological intervention. There are times when the body simply needs time, lifestyle modifications, or treatment tailored to specific medical causes. Therefore, before taking any medication, it is crucial for Mothers to understand the underlying cause of the menstrual disturbance.

Medication Options to Treat Irregular Menstruation

Before determining the appropriate medication, Mothers must first identify the etiology (cause) of the irregular menstrual cycle. To ensure accuracy, Mothers are advised to undergo a medical examination with a physician.


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Once the cause is identified, the doctor may prescribe one or a combination of the following medications to help restore menstrual regularity, particularly if the condition is related to hormonal disorders, pregnancy planning, or risks of infertility.

1. Clomiphene

Clomiphene is known by various brand names (such as Profertil, Clomifar, or Genoclom). This drug is frequently prescribed as a fertility medication (ovulation inducer), particularly for Mothers experiencing ovulatory disorders.

Clomiphene works by blocking the effects of the hormone estrogen. When estrogen is suppressed, the brain stimulates the release of essential hormones such as GnRH (Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone), FSH (Follicle-Stimulating Hormone), and LH (Luteinizing Hormone), which play a role in oocyte maturation (egg cell maturation). With more regular ovulation, the menstrual cycle becomes more stable, and the chances of conception may increase.

2. Gonadotropins

Gonadotropin medications are typically not available over-the-counter as they are administered via injection and must be under strict medical supervision. These synthetic hormones work by stimulating the ovaries to release an egg. Once ovulation occurs, the uterine lining (endometrium) will shed, resulting in menstruation if fertilization does not occur.

Common types of gonadotropins include hCG (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin), FSH, and GnRH agonists, which are substances also naturally produced by the body. Injections are administered to elevate these levels so that ovulation can occur more optimally.

3. Birth Control Pills (Oral Contraceptives)

In certain conditions, doctors may suggest the use of birth control pills to help normalize the menstrual cycle. This use is typically temporary to “reset” the cycle, rather than for long-term contraception during pregnancy planning.

These pills work by increasing the production of globulin proteins (specifically Sex Hormone Binding Globulin or SHBG) which function to bind androgen hormones, including testosterone. High androgen levels are known to disrupt the menstrual cycle and contribute to infertility. By suppressing these hormonal effects, the menstrual cycle can become more regular. Additionally, birth control pills can help reduce PMS symptoms such as abdominal cramps, acne, and excessive hair growth (hirsutism).

4. Progestin

Progestin is a synthetic hormone that functions similarly to the natural hormone progesterone. This medication is often used to help balance estrogen hormones responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle.

Progestin is available in various forms, ranging from pills and injections to intrauterine devices (IUDs) like Mirena. Besides helping to induce menstruation, progestin also plays a role in preparing the uterine lining for implantation (fertilization).

5. Metformin

If the irregular menstruation experienced is caused by PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome), the doctor may prescribe metformin.

PCOS causes androgen hormone levels to rise and creates insulin resistance, thereby disrupting ovulation and increasing the risk of infertility. Metformin helps improve insulin sensitivity and balance estrogen and androgen hormones, allowing ovulation to occur regularly and the menstrual cycle to become smoother.

6. Bromocriptine

Bromocriptine is used to treat disorders caused by an excess of the hormone prolactin (hyperprolactinemia). One sign of high prolactin is an irregular or absent menstrual cycle.

This medication must be taken according to a doctor’s advice, usually starting with a low dose and gradually increasing. Therefore, laboratory tests and medical consultation are essential before Mothers start consuming it.

7. Tranexamic Acid

Unlike menstrual induction drugs, medications containing Tranexamic Acid (such as Transamin or Kalnex) are usually prescribed if the “irregularity” experienced involves excessive or prolonged menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia).

Doctors may also prescribe Lysteda if the menstrual cycle is problematic. This medication works by aiding the blood coagulation (clotting) process to stop heavy bleeding. Before consumption, Mothers need to disclose their complete medical history to the doctor to avoid the risk of thrombosis (blood clots).

8. Norethisterone

Norethisterone belongs to the progestin group and is often used to treat irregular periods or to temporarily delay menstruation (for example, during Umrah pilgrimage). This drug works by strengthening the uterine lining and stimulating the production of certain hormones to regulate the menstrual cycle.

Additionally, norethisterone can help manage endometriosis, a condition often causing severe menstrual pain which can be associated with infertility. Another type of progestin often prescribed is medroxyprogesterone.

How to Regulate Menstruation Without Medication

Before or concurrently with drug therapy, Mothers can also try the following natural methods to improve hormonal balance:

  • Maintaining a nutritionally balanced diet.

  • Engaging in routine light-to-moderate exercise.

  • Managing stress effectively (high cortisol can inhibit ovulation).

  • Getting adequate sleep and rest.

  • Maintaining an ideal body weight (BMI).

In many cases, consistent lifestyle changes are sufficient to help regulate menstruation and support the success of pregnancy planning without the need for pharmacological intervention.

The Importance of Consultation, Especially During Pregnancy Planning

Every menstrual regulation medication has different functions, risks, and indications. Therefore, Mothers are contraindicated (not advised) to consume these medications indiscriminately without a doctor’s consultation, especially if currently undergoing a pregnancy program.

Inappropriate medication use can actually disrupt hormonal balance, hinder ovulation, and increase the risk of infertility. With proper examination at Bocah Indonesia, doctors can help determine the best management plan tailored to Mothers’ health conditions.

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