Can Emergency Contraceptive Pills Delay Your Period?

Can taking emergency contraceptive pills cause a delay in menstruation?

I took emergency contraception once at the beginning of January, but since then, I have had unprotected intercourse every Saturday without ejaculation.
My period was due on January 28, but it hasn't arrived yet.
Is there a possibility of pregnancy? I have tenderness near my shoulders when pressed, feel a bit fatigued after work, tend to fall asleep while watching TV, experience slight frequent urination, and have some lower back discomfort, but there is no bleeding from my lower body.

bu zhidao shi bu shi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/01/30

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the effectiveness of emergency contraceptive pills taken within 72 hours after intercourse is 97%, but it is not 100%, with a failure rate of about 3%.
Additionally, early pregnancy may not present specific symptoms, and subjective symptoms cannot be used to make a judgment.
It is recommended to check for pregnancy if your period is more than a week late.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2018/01/30

More Info

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. They work primarily by delaying ovulation, which can subsequently affect the timing of your menstrual cycle. However, it is important to understand that while ECPs can delay your period, they do not guarantee that your period will arrive on time or that it will be unaffected by other factors.

In your case, you mentioned taking ECPs at the beginning of January and then having unprotected intercourse every Saturday without ejaculation. Your expected period was due on January 28, but it has not arrived yet. This delay could be attributed to several factors, including the use of ECPs, stress, hormonal fluctuations, or even the possibility of pregnancy.

1. Effect of ECPs on Menstrual Cycle: ECPs can cause changes in your menstrual cycle. Some women may experience their period earlier or later than expected after taking ECPs. It is not uncommon for the next period to be delayed by a few days or even a week. If you took the ECPs close to your ovulation date, it might have delayed ovulation, which could push back the arrival of your period.

2. Pregnancy Possibility: Since you have had unprotected intercourse multiple times after taking ECPs, there is a possibility of pregnancy, even if there was no ejaculation. Pre-ejaculate fluid can contain sperm, and if ovulation occurred during that time, there is a risk of conception. The symptoms you are experiencing—such as breast tenderness, fatigue, frequent urination, and lower back pain—can be associated with early pregnancy or premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
3. Next Steps: Given that your period is late, it would be advisable to take a home pregnancy test to determine if you are pregnant. These tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period. If the test is positive, you should consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance. If the test is negative and your period does not arrive within a week, it may be wise to consult a healthcare professional to rule out any underlying issues.

4. Hormonal Fluctuations: Stress, changes in weight, illness, and other lifestyle factors can also affect your menstrual cycle. If you have been under stress or experiencing significant changes in your life, this could contribute to a delayed period.

In summary, while ECPs can delay your period, they are not the only factor at play in your situation. Given your symptoms and the timing of your sexual activity, it is essential to take a pregnancy test and consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and support. Remember, maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider about your reproductive health is crucial for making informed decisions.

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