Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Pain, Risks, and Myths

Emergency contraceptive pill

1.
How many days of abdominal pain is normal after taking emergency contraception, and when should it be considered abnormal?
2.
If a hand that has touched a tissue with a small amount of semen then goes into the vagina (but the hand is dry), is there a possibility of pregnancy?
3.
Does the fertilized egg take 6-8 days to implant? Are the symptoms of loss of appetite and lower abdominal discomfort before that time side effects of the medication or psychological effects?

Coco, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/12/01

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the use of emergency contraception may not necessarily result in abdominal pain; there could be other reasons for it.
Based on your description, the likelihood of pregnancy is low but not zero.
Additionally, the absence of pregnancy cannot be determined solely by subjective symptoms.
I recommend that if your period is more than a week late, you should take a urine test to check for pregnancy.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Chang.

Reply Date: 2017/12/01

More Info

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are a crucial option for preventing unintended pregnancies after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. However, understanding their effects, potential side effects, and the myths surrounding them is essential for informed decision-making.
1. Post-ECP Abdominal Pain: After taking emergency contraceptive pills, it is common to experience some abdominal discomfort or pain. This can occur due to the hormonal changes induced by the medication. Generally, mild to moderate abdominal pain can last for a few days after taking the pill. However, if the pain persists beyond a week or is severe, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider. Severe pain could indicate other complications, such as an ectopic pregnancy or other underlying conditions that may require medical attention.

2. Risk of Pregnancy from Contaminated Hands: The scenario you described, where a hand that has touched a tissue with a small amount of semen is then inserted into the vagina, presents a very low risk of pregnancy. Sperm requires a specific environment to survive and remain motile. Once semen is on a dry surface, such as a tissue, the viability of sperm diminishes significantly. Therefore, while it is theoretically possible for sperm to be transferred in this manner, the likelihood of this leading to pregnancy is extremely low.
3. Implantation Timing and Symptoms: Regarding the implantation of a fertilized egg, it typically occurs about 6 to 10 days after fertilization. Before implantation, the fertilized egg is still traveling through the fallopian tube. Symptoms such as loss of appetite and lower abdominal discomfort can be attributed to various factors, including hormonal changes from the ECPs, anxiety, or even premenstrual symptoms. It is essential to recognize that these symptoms can be side effects of the emergency contraceptive pill, as they can cause nausea, fatigue, and changes in menstrual cycles. Psychological factors, such as stress or anxiety about potential pregnancy, can also contribute to these sensations.

In summary, while abdominal pain after taking ECPs is common, it should not last excessively long or be severe. The risk of pregnancy from touching semen on a tissue is minimal, and symptoms experienced before implantation can often be attributed to the hormonal effects of the medication or psychological factors. If there are any concerns about symptoms or potential pregnancy, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and reassurance.

Similar Q&A

Emergency Contraceptives vs. Birth Control Pills: Risks and Proper Use

Which is more likely to have adverse effects, birth control pills or emergency contraception? Which one can lead to infertility if not used correctly? What constitutes correct usage? Will taking emergency contraception once a month lead to infertility?

Dr. Zhuang Zhijian reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Any medication, when not used correctly, can easily lead to side effects and may also result in complications. The so-called emergency contraceptive pills are intended for post-coital use and should not be considered a regular method of contraception. Contraceptive pills typicall...

Understanding Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Ingredients and Effects on Future Pregnancy

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) typically contain one of two active ingredients: levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate. If a woman takes ECPs and subsequently gets her menstrual period, it generally does not affect the ability to conceive through assisted reproductive techniq...

Dr. Huang Jianxun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: The so-called emergency contraceptive pill refers to taking a dose that is four to six times higher than that of regular contraceptive pills within 72 hours. Different contraceptive pills contain varying amounts of progestin and estrogen, so the dosage and frequency of adm...

Effects of Emergency Contraceptive Pills on Men: What You Need to Know

If a male takes emergency contraceptive pills, it is unlikely to have any significant effects, as these medications are designed for use by females to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. The active ingredients in emergency contraceptive pills, such as levonorgestrel ...

Dr. Hong Kunyi reply Pharmacology
Hello: If a male accidentally ingests an emergency contraceptive pill, which contains a high dose of progestin, it is generally not a cause for concern. However, common side effects may include dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, muscle aches, and back...

Understanding Emergency Contraceptive Pills: What You Need to Know

Yesterday, I visited a gynecologist and requested emergency contraceptive pills, but the doctor prescribed me with Ulipristal Acetate and a stomach medication. I find it strange because the emergency contraceptive pills I've taken before were always a single dose. After rese...

Dr. Cai Yonglong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Estrumon can also be used as an emergency contraceptive, as higher doses can interfere with the implantation of a fertilized egg.