Post-pill -- period but not ovulating

[ivorytickler2003]

I am trying to get pregnant with my second and I went off the pill mid-cycle three months ago. I had a "period" (withdrawal bleeding presumably) within a few days. I have since had a period every 23 to 24 days from the start of the last period (two more periods). This is a shorter cycle than I am used to -- but I've been on the pill for 8 years, so I'm not clear what my "normal" cycle is like. With my first, I did not go off mid-cycle, but I got pregnant within two weeks of going off the pill.

Since I am almost 35 -- and for various reasons would like to get pregnant as quickly as possible -- I started using an ovulation test after the first month of not being pregnant. For the first month of using it (month 2 of trying), I tested daily between day 10 and day 21. No ovulation. For the second month -- after realizing how short my cycle was -- I've tested every day since my period stopped. I am now at 22 days and still no ovulation.

I am confused -- how can I be getting my period if I'm not ovulating? Is this because of my stopping mid-cycle? Should I go back on the pill for a month and try stopping at a more normal time? Or do I just need to wait til things normalize? My great grandmother went through menopause at 37, and I am a little concerned that is happening to me. Even if it's not, it's quite difficult for us to maintain a schedule of having regular sex, given various issues in our home life. The fact that we never know when (or if) I'll be ovulating isn't helping. I'd appreciate your advice.

[jenn31872]

hi! i wanted to know if it is possible to not ovulate but have had periods for the last 19yrs? i am 31yrs old and have had my period since i was 12yrs old and am wondering if this is possible? and if so then why and how is it that i have had my periods every month for 19yrs???



thank you, jennifer

[Keith Downing, MD]

Hello,

In response to your question and to the response below I want to make the point that all uterine bleeding does not equal menstrual or period bleeding.  Thus, if you are not ovulating you are not having a menstrual bleed.  That doesn't mean you won't experience any bleeding, as a common sign of anovulation (not ovulating) is indeed irregular bleeding, however the mechanism is different.  

After discontinuing the pill, several months may elapse before ovulatory cycles return, but there is no increased risk of infertility.  Wait a few more months and see what happens.  If the ovulation kits continue to read negative, I would pay a visit to your ob/gyn to discuss your concerns, your desire to concieve and initiate a work up for anovulation.

Best regards,

Dr. Downing

[lauren8301]

It is very possible to have a period and not ovulate.  It is actually more common than most people think.  After I stopped taking bc pills, it took awhile before my periods and ovulation became normal.  Talk about it with your doctor, especially since you have a family history of early menopause; they might put you on clomid to help you ovulate more regularly.  I've also heard vitamin E helps.

Good luck!