Irregular Periods After Nuvaring Discontinuation: Causes & What to Expect

Question
Hello Dr Ramirez, I am writing from Louisiana.  Six months ago I discontinued using the Nuvaring hoping to get pregnant.  My cycles have been various lengths 32,28,35,24,44,32.  Starting with the 24 day cycle, I have had spotting during the luteal phase. The spotting starts about 10 days before my period.  Red or brown but not heavy enough for anything more than a pantyliner.  I have no other problems like pain etc.  I haven't been able to get pregnant yet. Are my hormones just trying to regulate or should I be concerned?
Thanks in advance for your advice.

Answer
Hello Mae from the U.S.,

Sometimes after using a prolonged hormonal medication like the Nuva ring, the ovaries can take a little time to regulate, but that usually is only 4-5 months after stopping.  Your have been going too long now for this to be a residual effect of the Nuva ring. More than likely there is some disorder causing the ovaries to not function correctly.  That needs to be evaluated then an appropriate treatment plan made.  I think that it is time for you to see a reproductive endocrinologist or infertility specialist for an evaluation.

Good Luck,

Edward J. Ramirez, M.D., FACOG
Executive Medical Director
The Fertility and Gynecology Center
Monterey Bay IVF Program
www.montereybayivf.com

Monterey, California, U.S.A.

for additional information check out my blog at http://womenshealthandfertility.blogspot.com check me out on twitter with me at @montereybayivf and facebook @montereybayivf