I have been married for one month and started taking Saheli (Ormeloxifene/Centchroman 30 mg) twice weekly from the first day of my period on 18th December 2016. My cycles are usually regular every 28 days. My period in January came 2 days late. I had intercourse for the first time on 5th February 2017, and since then I have not had my period. It is now about 18 days late. A home pregnancy test was negative. Could this delay be a side effect of Saheli, or do I need further tests or consultation to rule out pregnancy or other causes?
Saheli (Ormeloxifene/Centchroman) is a non-hormonal oral contraceptive pill, and it is known to sometimes cause changes in menstrual cycles (periods). Some women may experience delayed periods, lighter bleeding, or even missed periods while using it. So your current delay in periods may be a side effect of this medicine. However, since you are sexually active, pregnancy should always be ruled out first, even if a home urine test is negative. Early pregnancy or testing at the wrong time can sometimes give a false negative result. It is advisable to repeat the urine pregnancy test after a few days, using first morning urine, or get a blood test for beta hCG, which is more accurate. If pregnancy is ruled out and periods still do not start, then the delay is likely due to Saheli or a temporary hormonal imbalance. Stress, lifestyle changes, and the recent start of contraception may also affect the cycle. You should consult a doctor or gynaecologist if your periods do not return within 1 to 2 weeks, or if you develop any unusual symptoms.
