Menstrual Irregularities After Emergency Contraceptive Use

Menstrual irregularities caused by emergency contraceptive pills?

Hello, here's the situation: I had my period normally on April 5th, and then I had unprotected intercourse with my boyfriend on April 19th, but there was no ejaculation inside.
I was very anxious, so I took emergency contraception on the same day.
Then, on April 25th, I experienced withdrawal bleeding.
The issue arose on May 28th when I noticed a small amount of brown discharge on the tissue after using the restroom.
Later that afternoon, I had intercourse again, and to my surprise, there was dark red blood on the condom—though it wasn't a large amount, it was still noticeable.
I thought it was the start of my period, but since then, I haven't had any menstrual bleeding at all...
not even a little!
1) What was that blood? Why did this happen?
2) On the morning of May 30th, I used a pregnancy test, which showed a single line, but I’m still worried because my period hasn’t come yet.
What is the likelihood of being pregnant?
I apologize for asking so many questions, and I hope you can provide some answers.
Thank you!

Nami, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/02

Dr. Liao Yaopan reply Family Medicine

Hello, regarding birth control pills and changes in menstrual cycles, including abnormal bleeding, if you have any concerns, you should seek a detailed evaluation from a gynecologist.
It is also important to emphasize the significance of safe sexual practices.
Online consultations are not equivalent to in-person medical visits and cannot provide diagnoses or treatment recommendations.
Changhua Hospital cares about you.

Reply Date: 2020/06/02

More Info

Hello! Thank you for reaching out with your questions regarding menstrual irregularities after using emergency contraception. It’s understandable to feel concerned about changes in your menstrual cycle, especially after taking emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) and experiencing unexpected bleeding. Let’s break down your situation and address your questions.

1. What was the bleeding you experienced?
The bleeding you observed on May 28 could be attributed to several factors. After taking emergency contraception, it is common for women to experience withdrawal bleeding, which is similar to a menstrual period. This is due to the hormonal changes induced by the ECPs, which can disrupt your normal menstrual cycle. The dark brown discharge you noticed could be old blood, which is often seen at the beginning or end of a menstrual period. The presence of blood on the condom after intercourse may indicate that there was some cervical or vaginal irritation, especially if you were anxious or if there was any friction during intercourse.
It’s also important to note that ECPs can cause changes in the timing and flow of your next period. Some women may experience an earlier or later period, and the flow may be lighter or heavier than usual. If you have not had a period since then, it could be due to the hormonal effects of the emergency contraception.

2. What is the likelihood of pregnancy?
The likelihood of pregnancy after using emergency contraception is generally low, especially if taken within the recommended time frame (ideally within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse). However, no contraceptive method is 100% effective. The negative result on your pregnancy test on May 30 is reassuring, but it’s important to consider that testing too early can sometimes yield false negatives. If your period does not arrive within a week or so of when it was expected, it would be advisable to take another pregnancy test or consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, the bleeding you experienced could be a result of hormonal changes from the emergency contraceptive pill, and the absence of your period could also be related to these changes. If you continue to experience irregularities or have concerns about potential pregnancy, it’s best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice and support.

Additionally, if you find yourself needing emergency contraception frequently, it may be worth discussing long-term contraceptive options with your healthcare provider to find a method that suits your lifestyle and needs. Remember, it’s always okay to ask questions and seek clarity regarding your reproductive health. Take care!

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