Missed Period After Taking Emergency Contraceptive: What to Know

The emergency contraceptive pill has been taken, but menstruation has not occurred?

Hello, doctor.
I have been taking the oral contraceptive pill for five months now, and I have been taking it consistently every month.
My menstrual cycle has been normal, starting on the third day after finishing the pills.
This month, during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, I had sexual intercourse, and we used condoms throughout, with no ejaculation inside and no condom breakage.
I finished my last pill on October 12, but now it is already the third day, and my period still hasn't arrived.
Is there a possibility that I could be pregnant, or is it just a delay in my menstrual cycle?

R, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/10/15

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

You have been taking the oral contraceptive pill for five months, consistently and on time, with your menstrual period arriving as expected on the third day after stopping the pill each month.
This month, during the Mid-Autumn Festival and National Day holidays, you engaged in sexual intercourse while using condoms throughout, and there was no ejaculation inside the condom, which did not break.
You finished your last pill on October 12, but your period has not arrived after three days.
Given that you have been diligent with your contraceptive method and used condoms correctly, it is unlikely that you are pregnant.
It is more probable that your menstrual cycle is simply irregular this time.
It would be advisable to wait a little longer.

Reply Date: 2017/10/15

More Info

When it comes to missed periods after taking emergency contraceptives or while on regular birth control, there are several factors to consider. Based on your situation, where you have been consistently taking birth control pills for five months and have had protected intercourse without any incidents of condom failure, the likelihood of pregnancy is quite low. However, it is essential to understand the various reasons why your period may be delayed.

Firstly, hormonal contraceptives, including birth control pills, can sometimes cause changes in your menstrual cycle. It’s not uncommon for women on the pill to experience variations in their cycle length, especially if they have recently started or changed their method of contraception. Stress, changes in weight, illness, or even travel can also impact your menstrual cycle. Given that you mentioned the recent holidays, it’s possible that stress or changes in routine could be contributing to your missed period.

Secondly, while you have been diligent in taking your birth control pills, no contraceptive method is 100% effective. Although the chances are minimal, there is still a slight risk of pregnancy if you missed a pill or took it late, even if you used condoms during intercourse. However, since you indicated that you have not had any issues with the condom and have been consistent with your pill regimen, the probability of pregnancy remains low.

If your period does not arrive soon, it would be advisable to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are designed to detect the hormone hCG, which is produced during pregnancy. If the test is negative and your period still does not come, it may be worth consulting with a healthcare provider to rule out any other underlying issues or to discuss your contraceptive options further.

In summary, while the chances of pregnancy are low given your consistent use of birth control and the precautions taken during intercourse, it is still important to monitor your body and take a pregnancy test if your period does not arrive soon. If you have any concerns or if your cycle remains irregular, seeking advice from a healthcare professional would be beneficial. They can provide personalized guidance and help you understand your menstrual health better.

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