Post-Coital Contraceptive: Fever and Abdominal Pain Concerns

Emergency contraceptive pills fever?

I had sexual intercourse on the morning of June 29, and that afternoon I went to the pharmacy to buy emergency contraception, which included four pills and a drink to help regulate my body.
That night, I started experiencing abdominal pain, and the next day I developed a fever of 38 degrees Celsius, for which I took a fever-reducing pain reliever.
My menstrual cycle has been irregular, but I usually have it once a month.
Given this situation, should I see a gynecologist or wait for the fever to subside on its own?

A-ma, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/30

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, if you still have a fever, it is advisable to see a doctor.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/06/30

More Info

After engaging in sexual intercourse and subsequently taking a post-coital contraceptive pill, experiencing abdominal pain and fever can be concerning. It’s important to understand the potential implications of these symptoms, especially in the context of your recent actions.

Firstly, post-coital contraceptives, commonly known as emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), can cause various side effects. These may include nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, headache, and changes in menstrual bleeding. The abdominal pain you are experiencing could be a result of the hormonal changes induced by the contraceptive pill. It is not uncommon for individuals to experience cramping or discomfort after taking these medications, as they can affect the uterine lining and the hormonal balance in the body.

The fever you mentioned, reaching up to 38 degrees Celsius (approximately 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit), is also noteworthy. While mild fever can sometimes accompany the side effects of hormonal medications, it can also indicate an underlying infection or other medical condition. Given that you started experiencing fever the day after taking the contraceptive, it is essential to consider other potential causes. For instance, if there was any risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) or if there were any pre-existing conditions, these could manifest as fever and abdominal pain.

In terms of your menstrual cycle, if you have irregular periods, it may be challenging to determine if the contraceptive pill has affected your cycle or if the symptoms are indicative of another issue. Emergency contraceptive pills can cause a delay in your next period, and it is advisable to monitor your cycle closely in the following weeks.

Given these factors, it is prudent to seek medical attention. Visiting a gynecologist is recommended, especially since you are experiencing persistent abdominal pain and fever. A healthcare professional can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination, blood tests, and possibly imaging studies to rule out any serious conditions such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), ectopic pregnancy, or other infections.

In summary, while some abdominal discomfort and mild fever can be side effects of taking emergency contraceptive pills, the persistence of these symptoms warrants further investigation. It is always better to err on the side of caution when it comes to your health. Therefore, I strongly advise you to consult with a healthcare provider to ensure that any potential issues are addressed promptly and appropriately.

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Hello, I'm sorry I cannot provide a diagnosis based on what you've described. It could be inflammation. If you continue to feel unwell or if your period is more than a week late, I recommend seeing a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.