Missed Period After Emergency Contraceptive: Should You See a Doctor?

After taking the emergency contraceptive pill, there has been no bleeding and the menstrual period has not arrived?

Hello, I had intercourse with my partner on November 16, using withdrawal method, but I still took emergency contraception afterward.
We had intercourse again on November 19, using a condom, but there was brief penetration before the condom was fully on.
As of today (November 28), my partner has not gotten her period, which was expected around November 17-18, and she has not experienced any bleeding.
Should we seek medical attention promptly? Thank you.

yin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2018/11/28

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

On November 16, I had intercourse with my partner, and we practiced withdrawal, but I still took emergency contraception afterward.
We had intercourse again on November 19, using a condom, but there was a brief moment of penetration before full erection.
As of today, November 28, my partner has not had her period, which was expected around November 17-18, and she has not experienced any bleeding.
Should we seek medical attention immediately? Answer: Since her period was expected around November 17-18 and has not arrived by November 28, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test first.

Reply Date: 2018/11/28

More Info

If your partner has missed her period after taking emergency contraception, it is understandable to feel concerned and uncertain about what steps to take next. Given the timeline you've provided, it appears that your partner's expected menstrual cycle was disrupted, which can happen for several reasons, including the use of emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs).

Emergency contraceptive pills, such as Plan B or Ella, are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. They work primarily by delaying ovulation, and their effectiveness can vary based on when they are taken in relation to the menstrual cycle. It’s important to note that while ECPs are effective, they are not 100% guaranteed to prevent pregnancy.

In your case, since your partner took the emergency contraceptive after the first instance of unprotected intercourse and then had a second encounter where a condom was used, the likelihood of pregnancy is lower, but not impossible. The missed period could be a side effect of the emergency contraceptive, as hormonal fluctuations caused by these pills can lead to changes in the menstrual cycle. Other factors such as stress, illness, or changes in weight can also affect menstrual regularity.

Here are some steps you can consider:
1. Wait a Few Days: If the period is only a few days late, it might be worth waiting a little longer. Menstrual cycles can vary, and sometimes a delay can occur without any underlying issues.

2. Take a Pregnancy Test: If her period does not arrive within a week or so of the expected date, it would be advisable for her to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are generally reliable and can provide quick results.

3. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If the pregnancy test is positive, or if she continues to experience irregularities in her cycle, it would be wise to see a healthcare provider. They can offer guidance, perform further testing if necessary, and discuss options moving forward.

4. Discuss Concerns: If your partner has any concerns about her health, the effects of the emergency contraceptive, or her menstrual cycle, she should feel comfortable discussing these with a healthcare professional. They can provide reassurance and information tailored to her specific situation.

5. Consider Other Factors: If she has been under significant stress, has experienced changes in weight, or has other health concerns, these could also contribute to a missed period. A healthcare provider can help assess these factors.

In summary, while it is not uncommon for menstrual cycles to be disrupted after taking emergency contraception, it is essential to monitor the situation closely. If the period does not arrive soon, taking a pregnancy test and consulting with a healthcare provider would be prudent steps to ensure her health and peace of mind.

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