Does Emergency Contraceptive Pill Affect Your Next Menstrual Cycle?

Emergency contraceptive pill

I took emergency contraception on December 1st after having unprotected intercourse the day before.
My period started on December 7th, but now on January 14th, my period has not arrived.
I would like to know if taking the emergency contraception in December could affect my menstrual cycle in January.

SQ, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/01/14

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, sometimes emergency contraceptive pills can affect your menstrual cycle.
If you still haven't gotten your period after a week, it is advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/01/14

More Info

The use of emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), such as Plan B (levonorgestrel) or Ella (ulipristal acetate), can indeed have an impact on your menstrual cycle. These medications are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse and can alter the timing and flow of your next menstrual period.

When you took the emergency contraceptive pill on December 1st, it likely influenced your hormonal balance, which can lead to changes in your menstrual cycle. ECPs work primarily by delaying ovulation, but they can also affect the uterine lining and the menstrual cycle itself. As a result, some women may experience their next period earlier or later than expected, and the flow may be lighter or heavier than usual.

In your case, you reported that your period started on December 7th, which is relatively soon after taking the ECP. This could indicate that the pill was effective in altering your hormonal levels, leading to an earlier onset of menstruation. However, the fact that you have not had your period by January 14th raises some concerns.

It is not uncommon for ECPs to cause a delay in the next menstrual cycle, especially if your cycle was already irregular or if you are experiencing stress or other factors that can influence your menstrual health. The hormonal changes induced by the ECP can lead to a temporary disruption in your cycle, which might explain the absence of your period in January.

If you have not had your period by the time you expect it, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test to rule out the possibility of pregnancy, especially if you had unprotected intercourse after taking the ECP. If the test is negative and you still do not get your period, it may be a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help determine if there are other underlying issues affecting your menstrual cycle, such as hormonal imbalances, stress, or other health conditions.

In summary, taking an emergency contraceptive pill can affect your menstrual cycle, potentially causing changes in the timing and flow of your period. While it is possible for your cycle to be delayed after taking ECPs, if you experience significant changes or have concerns about your menstrual health, it is best to seek medical advice. Regular monitoring of your menstrual cycle and understanding how your body responds to hormonal changes can help you manage your reproductive health effectively.

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Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if taking emergency contraception during the ovulation period will affect the next menstrual cycle? Also, if I have taken it twice in a year, what is the best way to manage it? Thank you!

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