Unexpected bleed on tamoxifen?
Hey girls,
I'm probably overreacting a little bit here but said I'd ask anyway. I've just started a bleed today quite unexpectedly. My periods stopped completely when I was on chemo. In fact I started chemo on 22nd of Feb and my last period was 23rd of Feb. I started on the tamoxifen on 1st July. So today's bleed is very very unexpected. It doesn't feel anything like a period at all, and I know logically it's highly improbable that it's anything it shouldn't be..... But that doesn't stop me from worrying a bit.
I will phone my oncology nurse first thing in the morning and have her put my mind at ease. But am wondering if any of you have experience of something similar?
Sarah. X
Hi Sarah,
I was told that my periods could start again while taking Tamoxifen.
Apparently Tamoxifen sort of mops up any oestrogen that is present in the body before it can be used to help tumour growth. Tamoxifen doesn't prevent oestrogen from being produced in the first place and doesn't stop the reproductive organs from working. Nor is it a contraceptive though pregnancy is definitely not recommended while taking it.
You are wise to consult your BC nurse just in case. Especially if you feel that it is not like having a period. Though it could just be your body taking yet another step in getting back to normal again.
All the best
I've been on Tamoxifen since August and I am still getting regular periods. I'm 47. Your body has probably come out of the chemo induced menopause and is starting to get back to normal. That's my theory anyway! No harm to get it checked out, let us know how you get on.