Emergency Contraception: Side Effects and Pregnancy Concerns

Emergency contraceptive pill

Hello doctor, today I had intercourse with my boyfriend.
We only had a few thrusts without ejaculation inside, and since we didn't use a condom, I helped him with manual stimulation instead.
I'm worried about the possibility of pregnancy.
I took the emergency contraceptive pill, Anliting, about two hours later.
However, after approximately two hours, I noticed bright red blood when I masturbated.
My last menstrual period started on the 21st of last month, and today is also the 21st.
I'm concerned whether I could be pregnant or if this is a side effect of the contraceptive pill.

Huang Yaqi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/08/21

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
For pregnancy concerns, please take a home pregnancy test or visit a gynecologist for examination and evaluation four weeks after your most recent sexual intercourse.
2.
The menstrual cycle can be influenced by various psychological and physiological factors.
If your period is more than two months late, it is recommended to see a gynecologist for examination and evaluation.

Reply Date: 2021/08/21

More Info

When it comes to emergency contraception and its side effects, it's essential to understand both the mechanism of action of the medication and the physiological responses of your body. In your situation, you took emergency contraception (like Anlitin) shortly after unprotected intercourse, which is a proactive step to prevent unintended pregnancy.
Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) work primarily by delaying ovulation, preventing fertilization, or inhibiting implantation of a fertilized egg. The effectiveness of ECPs is highest when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours, but some types can be effective up to 5 days later. Since you took the pill within two hours, you maximized your chances of preventing pregnancy.

Regarding the fresh red blood you noticed after masturbation, this could be attributed to several factors. It is not uncommon for women to experience some spotting or breakthrough bleeding after taking emergency contraception. This can occur due to the hormonal changes induced by the medication. ECPs can cause alterations in your menstrual cycle, leading to changes in the timing and flow of your period.
Given that you mentioned your last menstrual period started on the 21st of the previous month and today is also the 21st, it is possible that the bleeding you are experiencing is related to your menstrual cycle rather than a sign of pregnancy. Emergency contraception can cause your next period to arrive earlier or later than expected, and the flow may be lighter or heavier than usual.

It is important to note that if you experience heavy bleeding, severe abdominal pain, or any other concerning symptoms after taking emergency contraception, you should consult a healthcare provider. These could be signs of complications that need to be addressed.

As for your concerns about pregnancy, if you took the emergency contraceptive pill as directed and your menstrual cycle is regular, the likelihood of pregnancy is low. However, if your period is delayed by more than a week from when you expect it, or if you experience symptoms of pregnancy (such as nausea, breast tenderness, or fatigue), it would be prudent to take a pregnancy test or consult with a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

In summary, the bleeding you are experiencing could be a side effect of the emergency contraceptive pill, and it is not uncommon. Your proactive use of the pill significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. If you have any ongoing concerns or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.

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