Irregular Periods After Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills

Emergency contraceptive pill

My girlfriend took the emergency contraceptive pill, but her menstrual cycle has become irregular.
Sometimes she gets her period every few months, and other times she has multiple periods in a month, followed by delays of several weeks.
Does taking the emergency contraceptive pill cause more irregularities in her menstrual cycle, and how long might it take for her period to return? Should she take a pregnancy test 14 days later?

Daxr, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/08/30

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

My girlfriend has taken emergency contraceptive pills, but her menstrual cycle is very irregular.
Sometimes she gets her period once every few months, and other times she has multiple periods in a month, which can be delayed by several weeks.
Will taking emergency contraception cause her menstrual cycle to become more irregular? How long will it take for her period to come? Should we take a pregnancy test 14 days later?
Answer: Taking emergency contraceptive pills can lead to more irregular menstrual cycles.
It's uncertain how long it will take for her period to return.
It's advisable to take a pregnancy test every month.

Reply Date: 2018/08/30

More Info

Understanding irregular periods after taking emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) is crucial for both reassurance and proper management of reproductive health. ECPs, such as those containing levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate, are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. However, they can also cause temporary changes in the menstrual cycle, leading to irregular periods.

When a woman takes an emergency contraceptive pill, it can disrupt her normal hormonal balance. This disruption can lead to various menstrual irregularities, including changes in the timing of her next period, the flow of menstruation, and the duration of bleeding. It is not uncommon for women to experience a delay in their next period, or conversely, to have their period arrive earlier than expected. Some women may also notice that their periods become lighter or heavier than usual, or they may experience spotting between periods.

Typically, after taking ECPs, a woman can expect her next period within a week or two of when it is due. However, it is important to note that the timing can vary significantly from one individual to another. In some cases, it may take a few cycles for the menstrual cycle to return to its regular pattern. If your girlfriend is experiencing significant irregularities, such as periods that are several months apart or frequent bleeding, it may be a good idea for her to consult a healthcare provider. This is especially important if she has any other symptoms, such as severe pain or excessive bleeding.

As for pregnancy testing, it is generally recommended to wait at least 14 days after unprotected intercourse or after taking the emergency contraceptive pill before taking a home pregnancy test. This waiting period allows enough time for the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) to build up in the body if pregnancy has occurred. If the test is negative but there is still no period after a few weeks, it may be wise to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, irregular periods after taking emergency contraceptive pills are common and usually not a cause for concern. However, if your girlfriend continues to experience significant irregularities or has other concerning symptoms, seeking medical advice is the best course of action. Regular follow-ups with a healthcare provider can help manage any ongoing issues and provide reassurance regarding reproductive health.

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