Menstrual Induction and Emergency Contraception Risks

Postponing menstruation medication, followed by taking emergency contraception after stopping the medication?

On January 30, I got my period.
On February 6, I had intercourse with my boyfriend (withdrawal method).
My period was due on February 22, but I experienced breast tenderness, abdominal discomfort, and lower back pain, yet my period did not arrive.
A urine pregnancy test was negative, and an ultrasound showed no pregnancy.
Later, on February 27, I visited a doctor who prescribed me medication to induce my period.
After stopping the medication on March 4, I had unprotected intercourse with my boyfriend the next day, and I immediately purchased emergency contraception (within half an hour after intercourse).
On March 9, I visited a gynecologist, who informed me that my endometrium had thickened and that ovulation was delayed.
I would like to ask the doctor: 1.
Does taking contraceptives after stopping the medication to induce menstruation cause delayed ovulation? 2.
Is there still a possibility of pregnancy after unprotected intercourse? 3.
Is getting an injection to induce menstruation more effective in bringing on my period sooner?

Xiao Jie, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/03/09

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

11.
For pregnancy concerns, please perform a home pregnancy test or consult a gynecologist for evaluation four weeks after sexual intercourse.
2.
Frequent use of hormones (such as menstrual induction, menstrual delay, and contraceptive pills, etc.) can lead to menstrual irregularities, making it difficult to predict and assess the menstrual cycle.

Reply Date: 2021/03/09

More Info

Understanding menstrual induction and emergency contraception involves several key concepts related to the menstrual cycle, ovulation, and the effects of medications used for inducing menstruation or preventing pregnancy.
1. Menstrual Induction and Its Effects: Menstrual induction medications, often containing hormones like progesterone or estrogen, are used to regulate or induce menstruation. When these medications are taken, they can alter the natural hormonal balance in the body. After stopping the medication, it is possible for ovulation to be delayed, as the body may take some time to readjust to its natural hormonal cycle. Therefore, if you take menstrual induction medication and then have unprotected intercourse, it could potentially lead to a delay in ovulation, but it does not guarantee that ovulation will be delayed indefinitely.
2. Risk of Pregnancy After Unprotected Intercourse: After having unprotected intercourse, especially following the use of menstrual induction medication, there is still a possibility of pregnancy. The thickening of the endometrial lining, as noted in your ultrasound, indicates that your body is preparing for a potential pregnancy, which can occur if ovulation happens after the unprotected intercourse. Since sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for several days, if ovulation occurs after the intercourse, there is a chance of fertilization.
3. Emergency Contraception: Taking emergency contraception (like Plan B or similar medications) shortly after unprotected intercourse can significantly reduce the risk of pregnancy. These medications work primarily by delaying ovulation, preventing fertilization, or preventing a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus. Since you took the emergency contraception within half an hour after intercourse, it is likely to be effective, but its efficacy can decrease if ovulation has already occurred.

4. Use of Menstrual Induction Injections: Hormonal injections used for menstrual induction can sometimes lead to a quicker onset of menstruation, but this can vary from person to person. The effectiveness of these injections in bringing on a period depends on individual hormonal responses and the timing of the menstrual cycle. If the body is already preparing for menstruation, the injection may help facilitate this process.

In summary, the interplay between menstrual induction, ovulation, and emergency contraception can be complex. If you are experiencing symptoms like breast tenderness, abdominal discomfort, and delayed menstruation, it is essential to continue monitoring your situation and consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can provide guidance based on your specific circumstances, including any potential hormonal imbalances or underlying conditions that may be affecting your menstrual cycle. Always ensure to discuss any concerns regarding contraception and menstrual health with a qualified healthcare professional who can provide tailored recommendations based on your health history and current situation.

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