Are my symptoms due to contraceptive pill withdrawal?

Question

Hello doctor,

As I came off the pill 14 months ago, I have had lots of issues: black, brown, smelly spotting, irregular periods, severe pain, severe fatigue, been to the emergency department many times with different issues (stomach bleeding, severe stomach pains, lightheadedness, back and neck ache, etc.).

I developed a headache about 6 months ago, MRI showed a pituitary microadenoma. I have been to an endocrinologist, but he has ruled out hormonal reasons and sent me away, saying another MRI will be done in 6 months, and has referred me to a fertility specialist.

I cannot live like this, with severe stomach issues, cannot eat properly, diarrhea, severe headaches 2 weeks leading up to periods, have lost 11 lbs within 5 months, severe fatigue, no energy for anything, palpitations, and any exercise makes me very lightheaded.

Please help.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

In your description, you have mentioned lots of issues that need to be investigated and sorted out in detail individually. Microadenoma and hormonal imbalance are two separate issues; actually, those can cause different symptoms, need different investigations, precautions, and treatments.

It would be better if you could send me your detailed reports. Adenoma-related issues need to be consulted with an endocrinologist on a regular basis. The rest of the medical issues need to be consulted with a general physician to sort out every symptom. Have some counseling sessions with a psychiatrist to help feel emotionally balanced.

For irregular periods, have a transvaginal scan and blood tests on day 2 of periods (testosterone, progesterone, prolactin, insulin, FSH and LH, thyroid function tests), high vaginal swab, cervical smear. Collect all laboratory tests and discuss here. Have combined oral contraceptive pills for 3 cycles to have hormonal support and regulate periods. After collection of a swab from the vagina, have an injection of Ceftriaxone 500 mg intramuscular once.

Azithromycin 1000 mg orally once. Tablet Doxycycline 100 mg twice daily and tablet Metronidazole 400 mg 8 hourly for 14 days. Have a balanced diet, weight, and BMI. Complete treatment of any health issue you have. Have a daily walk, exercise, and yoga. Have recreational activities and quit recreational drugs. Have cold milk at bedtime and after waking up before breakfast.

I hope this helps.

Please revert in case of further queries.

Thank you.