Post-Pill Symptoms and Menstrual Cycle Changes

After taking birth control pills

On February 8, I had my period and on February 9, I accidentally had unprotected intercourse and ejaculated inside.
The next morning, I took an emergency contraceptive pill (single tablet).
About five days later, on February 14, I suddenly experienced body aches, weakness, a headache, neck pain, and occasional abdominal cramps.
On the morning of February 15, I woke up with a slightly inflamed throat.
Is this normal? Normally, I experience lower back pain before my period, but not as severe as this.
Also, after taking the contraceptive pill right after my period, how long will it take for my next period to come?

Xiao Xiao, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/02/15

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

On February 8, I had my period and on February 9, I accidentally had unprotected intercourse with ejaculation.
The next morning, I took the emergency contraceptive pill (single tablet).
About five days later, on February 14, I suddenly experienced body aches, weakness, a headache, neck pain, and occasional abdominal cramps.
On the morning of February 15, I woke up with a slightly inflamed throat.
Is this normal?
Answer: A slightly inflamed throat is not normal; you should see a doctor.
Personally, I usually experience lower back pain before my period, but not as severe as this.
Also, after taking the contraceptive pill right after my period, when can I expect my next period?
Answer: It is not certain.

Reply Date: 2019/02/15

More Info

Understanding post-pill symptoms and menstrual cycle changes can be quite complex, especially after taking emergency contraception like the "morning-after pill." The symptoms you are experiencing, such as body aches, fatigue, headaches, neck pain, and abdominal discomfort, can be attributed to several factors related to hormonal fluctuations caused by the pill and your menstrual cycle.

When you take emergency contraception, it typically contains a high dose of hormones (either levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate) that can disrupt your normal hormonal balance. This disruption can lead to various side effects, which may include:
1. Hormonal Fluctuations: The sudden influx of hormones can cause your body to react in ways that are similar to premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Symptoms like fatigue, body aches, and mood swings can occur as your body adjusts to the hormonal changes.

2. Menstrual Cycle Changes: After taking the morning-after pill, your next period may be earlier or later than expected. It can also be lighter or heavier than your usual flow. It’s common for women to experience irregularities in their menstrual cycle after taking emergency contraception.

3. Physical Symptoms: The symptoms you describe, such as neck pain and abdominal cramps, could be related to muscle tension or stress, which can be exacerbated by hormonal changes. Additionally, the inflammation in your throat may be unrelated to the pill and could be due to a viral infection or allergies.

4. Timing of Symptoms: The timing of your symptoms is also significant. You mentioned that you took the pill shortly after unprotected intercourse and then experienced symptoms about five days later. This timing could coincide with your body’s response to the hormonal changes initiated by the pill, as well as the natural fluctuations in your menstrual cycle.

Regarding your question about when to expect your next period, it can vary widely. Some women may experience their next period within a few weeks after taking the pill, while others may find that it is delayed. If your period does not arrive within three weeks of when you expect it, it would be advisable to take a pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy.

If your symptoms persist or worsen, or if you have concerns about your health, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and may recommend further evaluation to ensure there are no underlying issues contributing to your symptoms.

In summary, while the symptoms you are experiencing can be concerning, they are not uncommon after taking emergency contraception. Your body is likely adjusting to the hormonal changes, and your menstrual cycle may be temporarily disrupted. However, if you have any doubts or if your symptoms are severe, seeking medical advice is always a prudent choice.

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