Emergency Contraceptive Use During Menstrual Cycle: Risks and Concerns

Taking emergency contraceptive pills during menstruation?

On March 14, it was the 6th day of my menstrual period, and the flow had already decreased significantly.
I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend, who accidentally ejaculated inside me.
I took a dose of emergency contraception (Plan B) within 5 hours.
The next day, on March 15, I noticed a slight amount of brownish blood on my sanitary pad.
Is this a reaction to the medication, or does it indicate that there will be no further bleeding after my period? Could this be related to my body’s condition? My menstrual cycle has been irregular, and I did not have my period for two months.
Is there still a possibility of pregnancy?

Nìmíng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/03/17

Dr. Chen Liqin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Taking emergency contraceptive pills may result in abnormal bleeding, which is a normal drug reaction.
If taken within 24 hours, the effectiveness of emergency contraception is 95%.
Dr.
Chen Li-Chin, Nantou Hospital.

Reply Date: 2020/03/17

More Info

Emergency contraception (EC) is a critical option for preventing unintended pregnancies after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. In your case, you took an emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) called Anliting within five hours after unprotected intercourse, which is a timely response. However, there are several factors to consider regarding your menstrual cycle, the potential side effects of the medication, and your concerns about pregnancy.

Firstly, it’s important to understand how emergency contraceptive pills work. ECPs primarily function by delaying ovulation, which prevents the sperm from fertilizing an egg. If ovulation has already occurred, the effectiveness of ECPs diminishes significantly. Since you mentioned that your menstrual cycle has been irregular, it may be challenging to determine whether you were close to ovulation at the time of intercourse. Irregular cycles can lead to unpredictable ovulation, which increases the risk of unintended pregnancy if contraception is not used.

Regarding the light brown discharge you observed on March 15, this could be attributed to several factors. After taking an ECP, it is common for women to experience changes in their menstrual cycle, including spotting or breakthrough bleeding. This can occur as a side effect of the hormonal changes induced by the medication. The brown color typically indicates older blood, which may be leftover from your previous menstrual cycle. It is also possible that this spotting is a response to the emergency contraceptive itself, as hormonal fluctuations can lead to variations in menstrual bleeding patterns.

Given that you mentioned your menstrual cycle has been irregular and that you did not have a period in February, it is essential to consider the possibility of pregnancy. While taking an ECP significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy, it is not 100% effective. If your period does not arrive within three weeks of taking the ECP, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test to confirm whether or not you are pregnant. Additionally, if you experience any unusual symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain or persistent bleeding, you should seek medical attention promptly.

In terms of risks and concerns associated with emergency contraceptive use, it is generally considered safe for most women. However, some may experience side effects such as nausea, fatigue, headache, or changes in their menstrual cycle. If you have any underlying health conditions or are taking other medications, it is wise to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure that the ECP is appropriate for you.

Lastly, if you find that your menstrual cycle continues to be irregular or if you have concerns about your reproductive health, it may be beneficial to discuss these issues with a healthcare professional. They can provide guidance on managing irregular cycles and discuss long-term contraceptive options that may suit your needs better.

In summary, while the light brown discharge could be a side effect of the emergency contraceptive, it is essential to monitor your menstrual cycle closely. If your period does not occur as expected, consider taking a pregnancy test and consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

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