Concerns About Pregnancy After Missed Period and Emergency Contraception

The day after, I received a menstrual induction injection and took the oral medication three times?

The last menstrual period started on September 26, 2016, and ended on October 2, 2016.
I had a pregnancy termination in July 2016, and since then my periods have been irregular, lasting only 5-7 days.
I’m not sure if this is due to frequently staying up late and being worried about the possibility of pregnancy.
I’m also uncertain about how to calculate my cycle—whether it should be 28 days or 32 days—so I haven’t been tracking it.
My last menstrual period was on October 27, 2016.
The last sexual intercourse occurred on November 27, 2016, without protection, and I did not take emergency contraception.
I had an external ejaculation.
The next day, I went to get a menstrual induction injection, and the doctor prescribed me birth control pills for three days, but my period still did not come.
After returning for more medication and taking it twice, my period still did not arrive.
On December 10, I experienced some mild discomfort in my lower abdomen and slight back pain.
I would like to ask the doctor if this timing makes it easy to become pregnant.
I am very worried about having unprotected intercourse during my fertile window and quickly becoming pregnant.
Additionally, I am concerned about repeatedly taking menstrual induction medication.
If I am pregnant, will taking these medications affect the pregnancy? I am really anxious because it has been too long without my period.

Xiao Fang, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/12/10

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

It is recommended to first take a pregnancy test.
If the result is negative, you can feel more at ease, as it may just be irregular menstruation.
You can start by taking medication to regulate your cycle.
If menstruation still does not occur after taking the medication, you should take another pregnancy test.
Sincerely, Dr.
Lu Li-Cheng, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2016/12/10

More Info

Concerns about pregnancy after a missed period, especially following unprotected intercourse and the use of emergency contraception, are quite common. In your case, it seems that you have experienced a series of events that could lead to anxiety regarding potential pregnancy. Let’s break down your situation and address your concerns.

Firstly, it’s important to understand how the menstrual cycle works. A typical menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days, but it can vary from person to person, ranging from 21 to 35 days. If your last menstrual period was on October 27, and you had unprotected intercourse on November 27, you would be at a point where you could potentially conceive, especially if you have irregular cycles. The timing of ovulation is crucial here; ovulation typically occurs about 14 days before your next expected period. If your cycle is longer, ovulation may occur later, which could increase the chances of pregnancy if you had intercourse close to that time.

You mentioned that you received an injection to induce menstruation and were prescribed emergency contraception pills. Emergency contraception is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours, but it can work up to 5 days after. However, it is not 100% effective, and factors such as timing in relation to your ovulation can influence its effectiveness. If you took the emergency contraception correctly and within the recommended time frame, it significantly reduces the likelihood of pregnancy.

Regarding your missed period, it’s not uncommon for hormonal interventions, such as the emergency contraception or the injection you received, to cause temporary disruptions in your menstrual cycle. This can lead to a delayed period, which can understandably cause anxiety about potential pregnancy. If you have taken the emergency contraception and the injection as prescribed, it is likely that these medications are influencing your cycle rather than indicating a pregnancy.

If you are experiencing symptoms such as abdominal discomfort or changes in your body, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can perform a pregnancy test to confirm whether or not you are pregnant. If you are pregnant, they will guide you on the next steps and discuss any concerns regarding the medications you have taken.
In terms of your concerns about the medications affecting a potential pregnancy, it is crucial to discuss this with a healthcare professional. Generally, emergency contraception is considered safe and does not harm an existing pregnancy if taken after conception has occurred. However, it is always best to get professional advice tailored to your specific situation.

In summary, while the anxiety surrounding missed periods and the possibility of pregnancy is understandable, it is essential to seek medical advice for clarity. A healthcare provider can offer a pregnancy test and discuss your symptoms and concerns in detail. Remember, many factors can influence your menstrual cycle, and it’s important to address these with a professional who can provide the appropriate care and guidance.

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