Recovering from asthma. On steroids. Altered menstruation. Medication side effect?
Patient: Hi dr.. I just had a whole 2 weeks of treating quite a bad of case of asthma .. And am just recovering now. I have been on steroids (pred) for more than a week. Yesterday I got my period, with a 9 day delay, which I don t usually have...but it s not bleeding normally, it s just spots with my period pain. I usually have a very heavy flow on my 2nd day, but this time it s literally a big spot. What could the cause of it be? I had 2 miscarriages before, and am concerned. Thank u so much . Doctor: Hello,  Corticosteroids are known to upset the normal hormonal balance, as well as menstruation. Menstrual irregularities are quite common in people who take steroids, more so for those who have to take a big dose for flare ups of asthma, eczema, and other disorders.  If the flow is very heavy, then tranexamic acid will control it.  But usually the flow settles down, and the periods normalise by the next month or soon after.  There is no need to worry about it. Best Wishes.