Are Symptoms After Taking Birth Control Pills Side Effects or Pregnancy?

Are the symptoms of taking birth control pills side effects or signs of pregnancy?

Hello: I had unprotected intercourse with my girlfriend on January 14th and did not take emergency contraception because it was late.
I bought the emergency contraceptive pill, Levofloxacin, the next day.
However, on June 18th, I experienced severe abdominal pain, along with fever and dizziness.
Is this normal or could it be a sign of pregnancy?

Yan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/18

Dr. Cai Yonglong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The time interval is approximately over 5 months, and there should be no correlation between the two.
Please visit the obstetrics and gynecology outpatient clinic for an examination.

Reply Date: 2020/06/18

More Info

When it comes to the symptoms experienced after taking birth control pills, it is essential to differentiate between side effects of the medication and potential signs of pregnancy. Birth control pills, such as the one you mentioned (Lybrel), can cause a variety of side effects, especially when starting or changing a contraceptive method. Common side effects include nausea, headaches, breast tenderness, mood changes, and abdominal discomfort. These symptoms can occur as your body adjusts to the hormones in the pills.

In your case, the severe abdominal pain, fever, and dizziness you experienced on June 18 could be concerning. While some discomfort can be expected when starting birth control pills, severe pain and systemic symptoms like fever and dizziness warrant further investigation. These symptoms could indicate several possibilities:
1. Side Effects of Birth Control Pills: As mentioned, hormonal contraceptives can cause gastrointestinal discomfort and other systemic effects. However, severe symptoms are less common and should not be ignored.

2. Pregnancy: If you had unprotected intercourse and did not take the emergency contraceptive pill within the recommended time frame, there is a possibility of pregnancy. Symptoms of early pregnancy can sometimes mimic side effects of birth control pills, but severe abdominal pain is not typical for early pregnancy and could indicate complications.

3. Ectopic Pregnancy: This is a serious condition where a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, often in a fallopian tube. Symptoms can include severe abdominal pain, dizziness, and sometimes fever. This condition requires immediate medical attention.

4. Other Medical Conditions: Conditions such as ovarian cysts, pelvic inflammatory disease, or other gastrointestinal issues could also cause similar symptoms.
Given the severity of your symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly. A healthcare provider can perform a physical examination and possibly order tests, such as a pregnancy test or an ultrasound, to determine the cause of your symptoms.
In summary, while some symptoms can be attributed to the side effects of birth control pills, the severity of your symptoms suggests that it is essential to rule out pregnancy or other medical conditions. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to reproductive health. If you suspect you might be pregnant or if your symptoms worsen, please consult a healthcare professional as soon as possible.

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