Emergency Contraception and Irregular Menstrual Cycles

Emergency contraceptive pill

On April 3, April 7, and April 9, there was condom-protected intercourse.
On April 3 and April 7, due to concerns, emergency contraception was taken.
From April 13 to April 17, there was bleeding.
Is this irregular menstruation or is there another issue? If it is irregular menstruation, will the next cycle be calculated based on the original schedule or starting from April 13? Today, my girlfriend mentioned feeling nauseous.
Could this indicate pregnancy?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/26

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, sometimes contraceptive pills can cause changes in menstruation.
The next cycle will be calculated starting from April 13.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/04/26

More Info

Emergency contraception (EC) is a method used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse or contraceptive failure, such as a broken condom. It is most effective when taken as soon as possible after the incident, ideally within 72 hours, but some forms can be taken up to 5 days later. In your case, your girlfriend took emergency contraception after using condoms on April 3rd and April 7th, which is a responsible action if there was concern about potential contraceptive failure.

The bleeding that occurred from April 13th to April 17th could be a side effect of the emergency contraception. EC can cause changes in menstrual cycles, including irregular bleeding or spotting, which is often referred to as withdrawal bleeding. This bleeding is typically lighter than a normal period and can occur due to the hormonal changes induced by the emergency contraceptive pill.
Regarding your question about the menstrual cycle, if the bleeding on April 13th is indeed a result of the emergency contraception, it may not be considered a regular period. The next menstrual cycle could still follow the original schedule based on her typical cycle length, or it could be delayed or altered due to the hormonal effects of the EC. If her cycles are usually regular, it may take a few cycles for her body to readjust after taking the emergency contraceptive.

As for the symptoms of nausea or feeling unwell, it is important to note that these can be side effects of the emergency contraception as well. However, they can also be early signs of pregnancy, especially if she has missed her next expected period. If her period does not arrive within a week of when it is expected, it would be advisable for her to take a home pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy.

In summary, the bleeding from April 13th to April 17th could be a side effect of the emergency contraception, and the next menstrual cycle may not follow the usual schedule. If your girlfriend is experiencing nausea, it could be related to the EC or a sign of pregnancy, so monitoring her symptoms and taking a pregnancy test if her period is late would be prudent. If there are any concerns or if symptoms persist, consulting a healthcare provider is always a good idea for personalized advice and care.

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