Is It Birth Control Side Effects or Pregnancy Symptoms?

Is it a side effect of the contraceptive pill or pregnancy?

On the 8th of the month, during the fertile period, I had unprotected intercourse and the male partner ejaculated outside.
Within 5.6 hours, I took the emergency contraceptive pill (Ella).
Later, I experienced slight dizziness and breast tenderness, which was somewhat painful but did not last long.
About a week later, I had bleeding for six days, which was not as heavy as my usual menstrual flow (1-2 days).
The blood color varied from pink to red and dark red, with the later days showing spotting.
Should this be considered breakthrough bleeding as a side effect? Today, I am experiencing nausea, a desire to vomit, stomach pain, and some abdominal bloating.
Additionally, I have a slightly elevated body temperature.
I'm unsure if this is due to gastroenteritis, as I read online that stomach pain could also indicate pregnancy.
I have also felt nauseous while eating today.
I'm uncertain whether these symptoms are side effects, signs of pregnancy, or gastroenteritis.
Furthermore, can side effects appear this late? I'm a bit worried about the possibility of being pregnant.

Yu, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/18

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, emergency contraceptive pills can sometimes cause irregular menstruation.
Generally, a pregnancy test should be taken at least 12 days after conception to get accurate results.
If you continue to experience discomfort, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/08/18

More Info

When it comes to distinguishing between birth control side effects and early pregnancy symptoms, it can often be quite challenging, especially given the overlapping nature of these symptoms. In your case, you mentioned several symptoms following unprotected intercourse during your fertile window, along with the subsequent use of emergency contraception (the "morning-after pill"). Let's break down your concerns.

Firstly, the symptoms you are experiencing—such as dizziness, breast tenderness, nausea, abdominal bloating, and changes in your menstrual bleeding—can indeed be associated with both the use of emergency contraception and early pregnancy. Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) like the one you took can lead to side effects that mimic pregnancy symptoms. These can include:
1. Nausea and Vomiting: This is a common side effect of ECPs and can occur shortly after taking the medication.

2. Breast Tenderness: Hormonal changes from the ECP can lead to breast tenderness or swelling.

3. Changes in Menstrual Bleeding: ECPs can cause your next period to be earlier, later, lighter, or heavier than usual. The spotting you described, which was different from your typical menstrual flow, could be a side effect of the pill.

4. Dizziness: Hormonal fluctuations can also lead to feelings of dizziness or lightheadedness.

Regarding the bleeding you experienced, it is possible that this was a side effect of the emergency contraceptive rather than a sign of pregnancy. ECPs can cause breakthrough bleeding, which may appear as light spotting or a change in your usual menstrual pattern.

Now, concerning the possibility of pregnancy: If you had unprotected intercourse during your fertile window and did not use a condom, there is a chance of conception. Early pregnancy symptoms can include nausea, breast tenderness, and changes in your menstrual cycle. However, it is important to note that these symptoms can also be attributed to the hormonal changes induced by the emergency contraceptive.

As for your concern about gastrointestinal symptoms, such as nausea and abdominal pain, these could indeed be related to a gastrointestinal issue like gastritis or a mild stomach virus, especially if you are experiencing a fever. Stress and anxiety about the possibility of pregnancy can also exacerbate gastrointestinal discomfort.

In terms of timing, side effects from emergency contraception can appear within a few days to a week after taking the pill, but they can also vary from person to person. If you are still uncertain about your situation, the best course of action would be to take a home pregnancy test about a week after your expected period. This will give you a clearer indication of whether you are pregnant or if your symptoms are related to the emergency contraceptive or another issue.

In summary, while your symptoms could be indicative of either pregnancy or side effects from the emergency contraceptive, the timing and nature of your symptoms suggest that they may be more closely related to the hormonal changes from the pill. However, if your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you have any concerns about your health, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Side Effects of Birth Control Pills: Your Concerns Addressed

Hello doctor, I would like to ask a question. I have been taking the Alesse 21-day birth control pill for six months, but after finishing the pack in February, my period did not arrive until the sixth day after finishing the pills. I started taking the birth control pills again o...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, it should be menstruation, and you are likely not pregnant. The correct way to start taking birth control pills is on the fifth day of your period. Wishing you good health.

Are Side Effects of Birth Control Pills Normal? Understanding Your Symptoms

I am currently taking the 21-day birth control pill, but starting from the 18th and 19th pills, I have experienced breast tenderness and slight discomfort in my lower abdomen. Is this normal? I have heard that taking birth control pills usually reduces premenstrual syndrome sympt...

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
If you are not feeling very uncomfortable, it is still acceptable and can be considered a mild side effect. Sincerely, Dr. Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

Understanding Birth Control Pill Side Effects and Menstrual Changes

Hello Doctor: My girlfriend has been taking birth control pills for over a month and has experienced side effects such as breast swelling, light bleeding, and headaches. Normally, her period should have arrived by now, but it hasn't. Could this be due to the side effects of ...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
What you need is not medical consultation but rather a remedial course in sexual education. For such inquiries, it is recommended to refer to the National Health Service's "Sexual Wellness e-Learning" or the Obstetrics and Gynecology Society's "Adolescent...

Potential Risks of Taking Menstrual Induction Pills When Uncertain About Pregnancy

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask what side effects may occur from taking menstrual induction medication? If I am unsure whether I am pregnant, could it lead to a miscarriage? After taking the medication, I have been experiencing abdominal pain, my breasts have been sore for a m...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the medication used to induce menstruation is generally progesterone, which does not cause miscarriage. If pregnant, it has a role in maintaining the pregnancy. Some individuals may experience a tingling sensation in the breasts after taking the medication. Typically, mens...