Am I Pregnant? Delayed Periods and Emergency Contraception

Is it possible to be pregnant?

Hello, I need to consult a doctor.
My menstrual period was from September 17 to September 23.
I was supposed to get my period around October 15, but it didn't come.
On November 3, when I had my first sexual intercourse with my boyfriend, my period still hadn't arrived.
We used a condom throughout the intercourse, but out of concern, I took emergency contraception three hours later.
As of today, November 8, my period still hasn't come.
Additionally, around October 24, I experienced a sudden increase in discharge, which lasted until about October 29.

1.
On the fifth day after taking the emergency contraception, I experienced severe diarrhea.
Is this normal?
2.
On the third and fourth days after taking the emergency contraception, I had slight abdominal pain.
Is this normal?
3.
Given that my period is already late, and we used a condom during intercourse and I took emergency contraception, is there still a chance of pregnancy?

Xiao Chai, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/11/08

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low.
Please wait another week, and if your period still hasn't arrived, I recommend seeing a gynecologist.
The other symptoms you mentioned are likely not related to the emergency contraceptive pill.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/11/08

More Info

When it comes to the question of whether you might be pregnant due to a delayed period, there are several factors to consider. First and foremost, a delayed menstrual cycle can be caused by a variety of reasons, including stress, hormonal imbalances, changes in weight, and even the use of emergency contraception.
In your case, you mentioned that your last menstrual period was from September 17 to September 23, and you expected your next period around October 15, but it did not arrive. You had unprotected intercourse on November 3, but you used a condom and took emergency contraception (Plan B) within three hours after the intercourse. It is important to note that while condoms are effective at preventing pregnancy, no method is 100% foolproof, and emergency contraception is designed to reduce the risk of pregnancy after unprotected sex.

1. Emergency Contraception and Side Effects: Taking emergency contraception can lead to side effects, including nausea, fatigue, and changes in your menstrual cycle. The severe diarrhea you experienced five days after taking the emergency contraceptive is not uncommon, as hormonal changes can affect your gastrointestinal system. However, if the diarrhea is persistent or severe, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

2. Abdominal Pain: Experiencing mild abdominal pain a few days after taking emergency contraception can also be a normal side effect. This medication can cause temporary hormonal fluctuations that may lead to discomfort. However, if the pain is severe or accompanied by other concerning symptoms (such as heavy bleeding or fever), you should seek medical attention.

3. Pregnancy Risk: Given that you used a condom during intercourse and took emergency contraception, the likelihood of pregnancy is reduced. However, since your period is already delayed, it is wise to take a pregnancy test to confirm whether or not you are pregnant. Pregnancy tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period, so if you test too early, you may receive a false negative result.

In summary, while it is understandable to be anxious about the possibility of pregnancy given the circumstances, the combination of using a condom and taking emergency contraception significantly lowers the risk. Delayed periods can happen for various reasons, including the stress of the situation, hormonal changes due to the emergency contraception, or other lifestyle factors.
If your period does not arrive within a week or two, it would be prudent to take a home pregnancy test or consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation. They can provide you with more personalized advice and help you understand your menstrual cycle better. Remember, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your reproductive health or if you experience any unusual symptoms.

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