Breast Pain and Vaginal Discomfort After Emergency Contraception

Breast tenderness?

Your girlfriend's menstrual period started around August 11 and ended around August 18.
On August 20, she engaged in sexual intercourse (with a condom), but the condom slipped off, and it is uncertain if there was any ejaculation inside.
On August 21, she had unprotected intercourse, and ejaculation occurred inside.
She took an emergency contraceptive pill (one tablet) half an hour later.
Within 24 hours, she had sexual intercourse twice and took the emergency contraceptive pill again within that timeframe.

On August 29, she experienced her first bleeding, which stopped on September 3.
A pregnancy test taken on September 4 showed only one line.
However, she has been experiencing persistent breast tenderness (pain when touched or pressed) since before the bleeding, which has not improved (only breast pain).

Is this still a side effect of the emergency contraceptive pill? What methods can help alleviate this? Additionally, she has been experiencing vaginal itching; what can be done to improve this? She often eats ice cubes; will her next period likely be around September 29?

An An, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/09/05

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The girlfriend's menstruation started around August 11 and ended around August 18.
On August 20, they had sexual intercourse (with a condom), but the condom slipped off, and it is uncertain whether there was ejaculation inside.
On August 21, they had sexual intercourse again (without a condom), and there was ejaculation inside.
After half an hour, she took an emergency contraceptive pill (one tablet).
Within 24 hours, they had sexual intercourse twice and took the emergency contraceptive pill again within approximately 24 hours.
Around August 29, she experienced bleeding for the first time, which stopped on September 3.
On September 4, a pregnancy test was taken, and the result showed only one line, but her breasts have been persistently swollen and painful (sensitive to touch and pressure) since before the bleeding, and this has not improved (only breast pain).
1.
Is this still a side effect of the emergency contraceptive pill?
Answer: Yes, it is a side effect of the emergency contraceptive pill.
2.
What methods can improve this?
Answer: Wait for the medication to wear off.
3.
Additionally, there is persistent itching similar to a vaginal infection.
What methods can improve this?
Answer: Apply topical ointment or use vaginal suppositories.
4.
The girlfriend often eats ice cubes.
Will her next menstruation likely start around September 29?
Answer: Possibly.

Reply Date: 2018/09/05

More Info

Breast pain and vaginal discomfort can be concerning symptoms, especially after a recent episode of unprotected intercourse and the use of emergency contraception. Let's break down the potential causes and implications of these symptoms based on the timeline and events you've described.

Understanding Breast Pain
1. Hormonal Changes: After taking emergency contraception (EC), which often contains high doses of hormones (like levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate), your body may experience significant hormonal fluctuations. These changes can lead to breast tenderness or pain, which is a common side effect. The breast tissue is sensitive to hormonal changes, and many women report breast pain after taking EC.

2. Menstrual Cycle Influence: Given that your girlfriend's last menstrual period was around August 11 and she experienced bleeding again on August 29, it’s possible that the breast pain is also related to her menstrual cycle. Breast tenderness is often associated with the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, which occurs after ovulation and before menstruation. If her cycle is disrupted by the EC, this could exacerbate the breast pain.

3. Psychological Factors: Anxiety and stress related to potential pregnancy or the circumstances surrounding the use of EC can also manifest as physical symptoms, including breast pain. It's important to consider the psychological impact of these events.

Vaginal Discomfort
1. Possible Infection: The itching and discomfort in the vaginal area could indicate a yeast infection or bacterial vaginosis, both of which can occur after hormonal changes or after sexual activity. The use of EC can alter the vaginal flora, making infections more likely. Symptoms of a yeast infection include itching, burning, and a thick, white discharge, while bacterial vaginosis may present with a fishy odor and a grayish discharge.

2. Irritation: If there was any friction during intercourse, or if there was a reaction to latex (if condoms were used), this could also cause irritation and discomfort.

Recommendations for Improvement
1. Breast Pain Management: To alleviate breast pain, your girlfriend can try wearing a supportive bra, applying warm or cold compresses, and taking over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or acetaminophen, as long as she has no contraindications. If the pain persists or worsens, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider.

2. Addressing Vaginal Discomfort: For the vaginal itching, it’s crucial to see a healthcare provider for an accurate diagnosis. If it is a yeast infection, antifungal treatments are available over-the-counter. If it’s bacterial vaginosis, a prescription antibiotic may be necessary. Maintaining good hygiene and avoiding irritants (like scented soaps or douches) can also help.

3. Monitoring Menstrual Cycle: Given that your girlfriend's menstrual cycle may be affected by the EC, it’s important to monitor her cycle. If her period does not arrive by the expected date (around September 29, as you mentioned), she should take a pregnancy test to confirm whether she is pregnant.

Conclusion
In summary, the breast pain your girlfriend is experiencing is likely related to hormonal changes from the emergency contraception and possibly her menstrual cycle. The vaginal discomfort may indicate an infection or irritation. It is essential for her to consult a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation and appropriate treatment. Open communication about these symptoms and seeking professional advice can help alleviate concerns and ensure both physical and emotional well-being.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Breast Pain and Sensitivity After Contraceptive Use

Hello doctor, I had a medical abortion on March 6 and had sexual intercourse on March 16. We used a condom during the encounter, and I took emergency contraception on March 18. Now, on March 28, my breasts are slightly swollen and painful, and my nipples are a bit sensitive. What...

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello doctor, I had a medical abortion on March 6th and had sexual intercourse on March 16th. We used a condom during the encounter, and on March 18th, I took emergency contraception. Now, on March 28th, my breasts feel a bit swollen and painful, and my nipples are somewhat sensi...

Understanding Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Symptoms and Concerns

If you took emergency contraception three hours after unprotected intercourse and then experienced abdominal pain, cold sweats, and bleeding about five hours later, it is possible that these symptoms are related to the medication rather than a sign of a fertilized egg that has no...

Dr. Yang Wangjun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: The most common side effect of emergency contraceptive pills is nausea, followed by lower abdominal pain, headache, dizziness, and vomiting. Additionally, symptoms such as breast tenderness and vaginal bleeding may occur. Therefore, your symptoms are likely caused by the e...

Understanding Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Side Effects vs. Pregnancy Risks

On May 8, there was sexual intercourse (with a condom). On May 12, menstruation started. On May 16, the first dose of emergency contraception was taken, and after four days, breast tenderness began. Is this a side effect of the medication, or is there a possibility of pregnancy?

Dr. Lin Xinwang reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello Ms. Tsai: Based on the timing of your menstrual cycle, the likelihood of pregnancy is low. Breast tenderness may be a side effect of the medication. If your next period is due and has not arrived, consider taking a pregnancy test.

Understanding Breast Pain After Menstruation: Is Pregnancy Possible?

Hello doctor, I had bleeding five days after taking the emergency contraceptive on February 23rd, but my breast tenderness has not improved since then, and it still hurts when pressed as of March 13th. I took a pregnancy test one week before and one week after February 23rd, and ...

Dr. Huang Yuande reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. After taking emergency contraception, there may be discomfort for about a week, and this cycle may become irregular. Generally, heat therapy or symptomatic treatment is recommended. 2. Pregnancy tests are typically accurate at least 2 to 3 weeks after sexual intercourse.