Emergency Contraceptive Pills and Menstrual Changes: Your Questions Answered

Emergency contraceptive pill

I took an emergency contraceptive pill on March 29 and April 6 due to a condom breaking and slipping off.
On April 15, I experienced light bleeding that lasted for about three days.
Does this count as my period? If not, when can I expect my period to arrive (my last period started on March 12 and lasted about seven days)? Starting from April 26, I've been experiencing pain in my lower abdomen; is this normal?

Xiao Xiao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/04/27

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

On March 29 and April 6, I took an emergency contraceptive pill after experiencing a condom break and slip.
Then, on April 15, I had light bleeding that lasted about three days.
Does this count as my period? If not, when can I expect my period to arrive (my last period started on March 12 and lasted about seven days)? Starting on April 26, I began experiencing lower abdominal pain.
Is this normal?
Answer: It counts as a period; if it doesn't, when can I expect my period? Regarding the lower abdominal pain, it cannot be considered normal.

Reply Date: 2019/04/27

More Info

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are a form of birth control that can be taken after unprotected intercourse to prevent pregnancy. They are most effective when taken as soon as possible after the incident, ideally within 72 hours, but some types can be taken up to 5 days later. The hormonal content in these pills can lead to various changes in your menstrual cycle, which is important to understand in the context of your recent experiences.

Based on your timeline, you took ECPs on March 29 and April 6, which could have influenced your menstrual cycle. The bleeding you experienced on April 15, which lasted for about three days and was light, could be a side effect of the ECPs rather than your regular menstrual period. ECPs can cause changes in the timing and flow of your next period, leading to lighter, earlier, or even delayed bleeding.
Given that your last menstrual period started on March 12 and lasted for about seven days, the bleeding on April 15 could be classified as "withdrawal bleeding" due to the hormonal changes induced by the ECPs. This is not uncommon and can happen as a response to the hormones in the pills.
As for your next expected period, it can be difficult to predict after taking ECPs. Generally, your menstrual cycle may be delayed or altered for a month or two following the use of emergency contraception. If your cycles are typically regular, you might expect your next period to arrive around the time you usually have it, but it could be earlier or later than expected. If you do not get your period within three weeks of the expected date, it would be advisable to take a pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy.

Regarding the abdominal pain you mentioned starting on April 26, mild cramping or discomfort can also be a side effect of taking ECPs. However, if the pain is severe, persistent, or accompanied by other concerning symptoms (such as heavy bleeding, fever, or dizziness), it would be prudent to consult a healthcare provider to rule out any complications or other underlying conditions.

In summary, the bleeding you experienced on April 15 is likely not your regular menstrual period but rather a response to the emergency contraceptive pills. Your next period may be affected by the hormonal changes, and if you have any concerns about your symptoms or menstrual irregularities, seeking medical advice is always a good approach. Remember to monitor your body and any changes closely, and don't hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.

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