Are Bruises on Your Back and Abdomen Related to Emergency Contraceptive Use? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Is there a connection between bruising on the back and abdomen and the use of emergency contraception?


Hello, recently I'm not sure if it's due to work fatigue or the fact that I just took emergency contraceptive pills, but I suddenly noticed a lot of bruises on my back and some on my abdomen, while my chest is unaffected.
Could this be related to taking the emergency contraceptive? I've been taking it for four days, and today I noticed a little bleeding.
Thank you, doctor.

Xinxin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/07/31

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Dear Ms.
Hsin-Hsin: Regarding the issue you mentioned, there should be no related concerns.
It is recommended that you visit an internal medicine specialist to check for any coagulation-related issues.
The Hualien Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2017/07/31

More Info


Bruises on your back and abdomen can be concerning, especially when they appear suddenly and without a clear cause. It's understandable to wonder if they might be related to the use of emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), such as the one you mentioned, Anliting.
Emergency contraceptive pills, which often contain hormones like levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate, primarily work by preventing ovulation or fertilization. While they can cause side effects such as nausea, fatigue, headache, and changes in menstrual bleeding, bruising is not a commonly reported side effect. However, there are a few considerations to keep in mind.

Firstly, hormonal changes induced by ECPs can lead to various physical symptoms, including changes in your menstrual cycle. The spotting or light bleeding you mentioned after taking the pill could be a result of hormonal fluctuations. This bleeding is often referred to as withdrawal bleeding and can occur as your body adjusts to the sudden influx of hormones.

Secondly, if you have been experiencing increased fatigue or stress, it could lead to physical manifestations such as muscle tension or minor injuries, which might explain the bruising. If you have been more active or engaged in physical work, it’s possible that the bruises are simply a result of minor trauma that you may not have noticed at the time.

Another important factor to consider is your overall health and any medications you may be taking. Some medications can affect blood clotting or increase the likelihood of bruising. If you are taking any other medications, including over-the-counter drugs or supplements, it would be wise to review these with your healthcare provider.

If the bruising persists, increases in size, or is accompanied by other symptoms such as severe pain, swelling, or unusual bleeding, it would be prudent to seek medical attention. A healthcare professional can evaluate your symptoms in the context of your medical history and current medications, and may conduct tests if necessary to rule out any underlying conditions.

In summary, while bruising is not a typical side effect of emergency contraceptive use, it could be related to other factors such as physical activity, stress, or interactions with other medications. Monitoring your symptoms and consulting with a healthcare provider if they worsen or do not improve is the best course of action. Your health and well-being are paramount, and professional guidance can help ensure that any concerns are appropriately addressed.

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