Delayed Menstruation: Concerns After Unprotected Intercourse

Menstrual delay?

Hello, I am 19 years old.
Last Saturday, I had intimate contact with my boyfriend, but I discovered that the condom broke.
He said he did not ejaculate, and that was the second time; the first time he did ejaculate, but the condom was intact.
Later, just to be safe, I went to buy emergency contraception and took it, but as of today, my period still hasn't arrived.
I also bought a pregnancy test, and it showed a negative result.
I would like to ask why this is happening.
It's strange because I only took two pills of the emergency contraception, while I had previously taken six.
Does that matter? Also, is it true that pregnancy tests are only effective when taken in the morning? Can they be taken at other times? Please respond as soon as possible because I am very scared.
Thank you.

asd, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2002/11/05

Dr. Dai Qihan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, your issue requires further inquiry and examination in the outpatient clinic.
Please visit the outpatient department for follow-up treatment.

Reply Date: 2002/11/05

More Info

It's understandable to feel anxious after experiencing a potential contraceptive failure, especially at a young age. Let's break down your concerns regarding delayed menstruation, the use of emergency contraception, and pregnancy testing.

Firstly, it's important to note that emergency contraception (EC), such as the pills you took, can affect your menstrual cycle. EC can cause your next period to be delayed, earlier, or even lighter than usual. This is due to the high doses of hormones in these pills, which can temporarily disrupt your normal hormonal balance. Since you mentioned that you took two pills instead of the usual six, it’s possible that the dosage you took was still effective, but the hormonal impact could vary from person to person.

Regarding your menstrual cycle, it’s not uncommon for periods to be delayed after taking emergency contraception. The stress and anxiety surrounding the situation can also contribute to a delay in menstruation. Stress can affect your hormonal levels, which in turn can delay ovulation and menstruation. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider both the physiological effects of the emergency contraceptive and the psychological impact of the situation.

As for the pregnancy test, it is generally recommended to take a home pregnancy test after a missed period for the most accurate results. However, many tests can detect pregnancy as early as a few days before your expected period. The best time to take a pregnancy test is in the morning when your urine is most concentrated, as this can increase the likelihood of detecting the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) if you are pregnant. If you took the test at a different time of day, it might still be valid, but morning tests are typically more reliable.

If your period does not arrive within a week or so after the expected date, it would be wise to take another pregnancy test or consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation. They can provide more personalized advice and may suggest a blood test for pregnancy, which is more sensitive than home urine tests.

In summary, the delay in your menstruation could be due to the emergency contraception you took, stress, or other factors. Continue to monitor your body, and if your period does not come soon, consider retesting or seeking medical advice. It's always best to consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your reproductive health or if you experience any unusual symptoms. Remember, you are not alone in this, and there are resources available to help you navigate these concerns.

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