Is Late Period After Emergency Contraceptive a Sign of Pregnancy?

Is a delay of 18 days in menstruation related to the emergency contraceptive pill? Should I be concerned about pregnancy? Thank you, doctor?

Hello doctor, my girlfriend took the emergency contraceptive pill on April 11.
She experienced some bleeding from April 17 to 20.
We had unprotected intercourse on May 2 (only for 2 minutes of withdrawal), but the app indicated it was a fertile window at that time.
We took a pregnancy test 19 days after the intercourse (on May 21), which showed negative, and another test 29 days later (on May 31), which also showed negative.
However, the app indicated that my girlfriend's period was due on May 17, and she is now 18 days late.
I am really anxious; could you please help me understand if there is still a possibility of pregnancy? What is the likelihood? Thank you, doctor.

Mr. Chen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/06/07

Dr. Huang Yuande reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Taking emergency contraception can indeed disrupt the menstrual cycle, leading to irregular periods.
Therefore, the likelihood of pregnancy solely from sexual intercourse on May 2nd is very low.

Reply Date: 2021/06/07

More Info

When it comes to the possibility of pregnancy after using emergency contraception, it's essential to understand how these medications work and the factors that can influence menstrual cycles. Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. They are most effective when taken as soon as possible after the event, ideally within 72 hours, but some types can be taken up to 120 hours later.
In your case, your girlfriend took the emergency contraceptive pill on April 11, and then experienced some bleeding from April 17 to 20. This bleeding could be a side effect of the emergency contraceptive, often referred to as "withdrawal bleeding," which can occur as a response to the hormonal changes induced by the pill. It's important to note that this bleeding does not necessarily indicate the onset of a normal menstrual cycle, and it can vary in timing and intensity from one individual to another.

You mentioned that you had unprotected intercourse on May 2, which was during a period marked as a "danger zone" on your app. However, since your girlfriend had taken the emergency contraceptive, it is likely that her ovulation cycle was disrupted, which can lead to irregularities in her menstrual cycle. The app may not accurately predict ovulation or fertile windows after taking ECPs, as these medications can alter hormone levels and delay ovulation.

You also noted that pregnancy tests taken on May 21 and May 31 were negative. Home pregnancy tests are generally reliable when used correctly, especially if taken after a missed period. However, if your girlfriend's period is delayed by 18 days, it is understandable that you are feeling anxious. Delayed periods can occur for various reasons, including stress, hormonal imbalances, changes in weight, or the effects of emergency contraception.

Given that the pregnancy tests have returned negative results, the likelihood of pregnancy is low, especially considering that the tests were taken well after the potential conception date. However, if your girlfriend's period does not arrive soon, it would be advisable for her to consult a healthcare provider. A doctor can perform a more sensitive blood test for pregnancy and evaluate any underlying issues that may be causing the delay in her menstrual cycle.

In summary, while there is a possibility of pregnancy after unprotected intercourse, the negative pregnancy tests and the effects of the emergency contraceptive suggest that pregnancy is unlikely. However, if the period remains absent, seeking medical advice is the best course of action to ensure her health and peace of mind.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Emergency Contraception: Signs of Pregnancy After Use

Hello, I took emergency contraception on February 12, had my period on February 17, took it again on March 15, and now I haven't had my period. Could I be pregnant?

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, emergency contraceptive pills can sometimes cause irregular menstruation. It is best to take preventive measures beforehand. If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to see a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.

Pregnancy Concerns: Delayed Period After Taking Emergency Contraceptive

If you had unprotected intercourse on April 21 and took emergency contraception, but your period is now a week late in May, it is possible that you could be pregnant. However, there are other factors that could also cause a delayed period, such as stress, hormonal imbalances, or ...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, if you suspect you are pregnant, you can take a pregnancy test. Wishing you good health.

Why Is My Period Late After Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills?

Hello, during my last menstrual period from March 4 to March 7, I had unprotected intercourse on March 11 and took the emergency contraceptive pill on March 12. After taking the emergency contraceptive, I only experienced light pink discharge, which was not like the heavier bleed...

Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello Ms. Vk: Since you confirmed on April 12 that you are not pregnant, there is no need to worry too much. If you are still concerned, you can wait a week and take another test to check again.

Am I Pregnant? Understanding Late Periods and Emergency Contraceptives

After taking the emergency contraceptive pill, my period was very late. I went to the gynecologist for an ultrasound, and the doctor said there was nothing abnormal. Later, I was prescribed medication to induce my period, and after taking it, my period came. Does this mean I was ...

Dr. Tian Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
The chances of pregnancy are low, but if you are concerned, it is recommended to purchase a home pregnancy test.