Can Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills Early Affect My Period?

Q: Can Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills Early Affect My Period?

Ms. <br>Li： It is recommended that you take a pregnancy test first. <br>If the result is negative, you can take the regular (preemptive) contraceptive pill during days 1-5 of your menstrual cycle. <br>However, please note that your menstrual flow may be lighter. <br>If you take t

Taking emergency contraceptive pills early?

Hello doctor, my last menstrual period started on June 15.
After having sexual intercourse on July 8, I noticed a small amount of blood clots, followed by a little bit of brown blood, which continued until July 15 when it turned into a small amount of bright red blood.
I thought my period had started, so I took the first pack of emergency contraceptive pills, which was my first time using them.
However, I haven't had any bleeding since then, and as of today, July 22, my period still hasn't arrived.
Could this be related to taking the emergency contraceptive pills early?

Ms. Li, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/07/22

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Ms.
Li: It is recommended that you take a pregnancy test first.
If the result is negative, you can take the regular (preemptive) contraceptive pill during days 1-5 of your menstrual cycle.
However, please note that your menstrual flow may be lighter.
If you take the pill on the first day of your period (July 15), your period will stop afterward, but please make sure to take the pregnancy test first.
The Hualien Hospital of the Ministry of Health and Welfare cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2021/07/22

More Info

Taking emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) can indeed influence your menstrual cycle, but the effects can vary widely among individuals. ECPs, such as Plan B or Ella, are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse, and they work primarily by delaying ovulation. However, they can also cause changes in your menstrual cycle, including the timing and flow of your next period.

In your case, you mentioned that your last menstrual period started on June 15, and after engaging in sexual activity on July 8, you observed some light bleeding that you interpreted as your period. You then took the emergency contraceptive pill, but since then, you have not experienced any further bleeding, and as of July 22, your period has not arrived.

There are a few factors to consider regarding your situation:
1. Timing of ECPs: ECPs are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse. If you took the pill shortly after the sexual encounter, it may have delayed your ovulation, which could subsequently affect the timing of your next period.

2. Menstrual Cycle Variability: The menstrual cycle can be influenced by various factors, including stress, hormonal fluctuations, and changes in routine. If you have recently experienced any significant changes in your life, these could also contribute to a delay in your period.

3. Effects of ECPs on Menstrual Cycle: After taking ECPs, some women may experience their next period earlier or later than expected. It is not uncommon for the flow to be lighter or heavier than usual. In some cases, women report experiencing spotting or breakthrough bleeding after taking ECPs, which may confuse the timing of their menstrual cycle.

4. Pregnancy Consideration: If you have taken ECPs and your period is significantly delayed, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test. ECPs are not 100% effective, and if ovulation has already occurred before taking the pill, there is still a chance of pregnancy.

5. Consulting a Healthcare Provider: If your period does not arrive within a week or two after the expected date, or if you have any concerns about your menstrual cycle or potential pregnancy, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider. They can provide guidance, perform necessary tests, and help you understand the changes in your menstrual cycle.

In summary, taking emergency contraceptive pills can affect your menstrual cycle, potentially causing delays or changes in flow. Given that you have not had further bleeding since taking the pill and your period has not arrived, it is prudent to take a pregnancy test and consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and reassurance.

Similar Q&A

Do Emergency Contraceptive Pills Affect Your Menstrual Cycle?

Doctor, I would like to ask, I previously took emergency contraceptive pills, but my menstrual period has been coming about half a month early. I am wondering if this is due to the contraceptive pills or if there is another issue with my body.

Dr. Zhao Chengxiang reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Emergency contraceptive pills contain high doses of progestin, which can affect menstrual cycles due to the medication. If you have any other concerns, please consult a healthcare provider in person.

Can Emergency Contraceptive Pills Cause Early Menstruation?

Can emergency contraception cause an early period? I took it on August 19, and today I have a bright red discharge that is similar in volume to my usual menstrual flow. Is this my period?

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, taking emergency contraceptive pills may cause irregular menstruation; just monitor the situation. Wishing you good health.

Can Emergency Contraception Affect Your Menstrual Cycle?

Hello doctor... My last menstrual period started on November 7th, and I took emergency contraception on the 15th. However, my period came on the 28th (which was quite light), arriving a week early. Does taking emergency contraception cause an early period? (My cycle is usually qu...

Dr. Shi Chengyang reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the emergency contraceptive pill contains high doses of female hormones, so taking it may cause your menstrual cycle to come earlier. This is similar to a menstruation-inducing effect. If you have further questions, please visit the obstetrics and gynecology department at ...

Does Emergency Contraceptive Affect Menstrual Cycle Timing?

If your menstrual cycle is regular and you were expecting your period on March 27 but it arrived early on March 24, it is possible that the early onset of your period could be related to taking the emergency contraceptive pill after unprotected intercourse on March 20. Emergency ...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, emergency contraceptive pills can sometimes cause irregular menstruation. If your period has arrived, it is likely that you are not pregnant. It is best to use preventive measures beforehand. Wishing you good health.