Could It Be a Miscarriage or Just the Effects of Emergency Contraception?

Is it a miscarriage?

I had intercourse with my boyfriend on September 26 and took emergency contraception the next day.
On September 8, I experienced bleeding that resembled menstruation.
After an ultrasound examination by a doctor, there was nothing significant found in the abdomen.
Could this be a sign of miscarriage, or is it related to taking the emergency contraception?

Zi Yin, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/09/25

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Having intercourse with my boyfriend on August 26, I took emergency contraception the next day.
On September 8, I experienced bleeding that resembled a menstrual period.
After an ultrasound, the doctor found nothing unusual in my abdomen.
Could this be a sign of miscarriage, or is it related to taking the emergency contraception? Answer: It is likely related to taking the emergency contraception.

Reply Date: 2017/09/25

More Info

When considering the situation you've described, it's essential to understand the effects of emergency contraception and the potential implications of the bleeding you experienced. Emergency contraception, such as the pill you took the day after intercourse, is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. It works primarily by delaying ovulation, inhibiting fertilization, or preventing implantation of a fertilized egg.
The bleeding you experienced on September 8, which occurred about 12 days after taking the emergency contraceptive pill, could be attributed to several factors. One possibility is that it is a side effect of the emergency contraception itself. Many women report experiencing changes in their menstrual cycle after taking these pills, including irregular bleeding or spotting. This is particularly common and can occur due to the hormonal changes induced by the medication.
In your case, since the ultrasound indicated that there was no evidence of an intrauterine pregnancy, it is less likely that the bleeding is a sign of miscarriage. A miscarriage typically occurs when a pregnancy has been established, and it usually presents with more significant bleeding and cramping. Given that you took the emergency contraceptive pill shortly after unprotected intercourse, it is more plausible that the bleeding is related to the hormonal effects of the pill rather than a miscarriage.

It's important to note that while emergency contraception is effective, it is not 100% guaranteed to prevent pregnancy. If you had unprotected intercourse close to your ovulation period, there is still a small chance of pregnancy. If you continue to experience unusual bleeding, or if you have any other concerning symptoms, it would be wise to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, the bleeding you experienced is likely a side effect of the emergency contraception rather than a miscarriage, especially considering the ultrasound results. However, if you have any doubts or if your symptoms change, seeking medical advice is always a good course of action. It's crucial to monitor your body and communicate any concerns with your healthcare provider to ensure your reproductive health is managed appropriately.

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