Missed Period After Taking Emergency Contraceptive: What to Know

After taking the emergency contraceptive pill, my period hasn't arrived?

On July 10th, around 7 PM, I had sexual intercourse with a male (withdrawal method + safe period).
On July 11th, around 3 PM, I took emergency contraception.
I did not experience any bleeding afterward, and my period was due on July 16th but has not arrived yet.
I am worried about the possibility of being pregnant.

Xiao Jie, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/07/18

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, you are likely not pregnant.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/07/18

More Info

When it comes to missed periods after taking emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), it's important to understand how these medications work and what factors could influence your menstrual cycle. In your case, you had unprotected intercourse on July 10, followed by taking an emergency contraceptive pill on July 11. You are now concerned about a missed period, which was expected around July 16.

Emergency contraceptive pills, such as Plan B or Ella, are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. They work primarily by delaying ovulation, which means that if you take them before ovulation occurs, they can effectively prevent an egg from being fertilized. However, if ovulation has already taken place, the effectiveness of ECPs diminishes significantly.
The timing of your menstrual cycle is also crucial in assessing the situation. If your menstrual cycle is typically regular, a missed period can understandably raise concerns about potential pregnancy. However, ECPs can cause temporary disruptions in your menstrual cycle, leading to changes in the timing and flow of your period. Some women may experience an earlier or delayed period after taking ECPs, and some may even have lighter or heavier bleeding than usual.

In your case, since you took the emergency contraceptive pill shortly after the sexual encounter, the likelihood of pregnancy is relatively low, especially if you were in your "safe" period. However, it's important to note that no contraceptive method is 100% effective, and there is always a small risk of pregnancy when engaging in unprotected sex.

If your period does not arrive within a week of the expected date, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test for confirmation. These tests are generally accurate and can provide peace of mind. If the test is positive, you should consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation and options. If the test is negative but your period still does not arrive, it may be worth visiting a healthcare professional to discuss your symptoms and any underlying issues that may be affecting your menstrual cycle.

In summary, while the chances of pregnancy after taking emergency contraception are low, especially when taken promptly, the hormonal changes induced by the pill can lead to a missed or altered period. If you are concerned about your missed period, taking a pregnancy test and consulting with a healthcare provider can help clarify your situation and provide guidance on the next steps. Remember that stress and anxiety can also impact your menstrual cycle, so it's essential to consider your overall well-being during this time.

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