Delayed Menstruation After Unprotected Intercourse: What to Do?

Shoulder pain?

I would like to ask about my situation.
My boyfriend and I had unprotected intercourse on the fifth day of my period, which started on February 16.
I took emergency contraception on February 17.
After that, I experienced bleeding for about three days starting on February 22.
Now, as of March 19, my period has not yet arrived.
I bought a pregnancy test on March 17, and it showed negative results.
When can I expect my period in March? Is there a chance I could be pregnant? Should I see a gynecologist?

sjdjjnd, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/03/19

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the effects of emergency contraceptive pills on menstruation can vary; they may cause your period to come earlier or later.
Additionally, their contraceptive effectiveness is not 100%, with a failure rate of about 3%.
It is advisable to consult a gynecologist if your period is more than a week late to check for pregnancy.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Chang

Reply Date: 2018/03/19

More Info

Delayed menstruation after unprotected intercourse can be a source of anxiety for many individuals, especially when combined with the use of emergency contraception. In your case, you had unprotected intercourse on February 16 and took an emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) the following day. You experienced some bleeding around February 22, which could be a side effect of the ECP, as these medications can cause changes in your menstrual cycle.

Emergency contraceptive pills work primarily by delaying ovulation, which can prevent pregnancy if taken shortly after unprotected intercourse. However, they can also lead to irregular bleeding or spotting, which is not uncommon. The bleeding you experienced on February 22 may have been a withdrawal bleed due to the hormonal changes induced by the ECP.

Regarding your delayed menstruation, it is important to note that ECPs can cause your next period to be earlier, later, or even heavier than usual. It is not unusual for your menstrual cycle to be disrupted after taking emergency contraception. Since you have not had your period by March 19, it is understandable to be concerned.

You mentioned that you took a pregnancy test on March 17, which came back negative. This is a good indication that you are not pregnant, especially if the test was taken after the expected date of your period. However, if you continue to experience a delay in your menstruation, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider, such as a gynecologist. They can perform a more sensitive pregnancy test and evaluate any other potential causes for your delayed menstruation, such as hormonal imbalances, stress, or other underlying health issues.

In summary, while it is likely that your delayed menstruation is a result of the emergency contraceptive pill and the hormonal changes it caused, it is always best to seek medical advice if you have concerns about your menstrual cycle or reproductive health. A healthcare provider can provide personalized guidance and support based on your specific situation. If your period does not arrive within a week or two, or if you experience any unusual symptoms, please make an appointment with a gynecologist for further evaluation.

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