Brown Discharge After Emergency Contraceptive: Causes and Concerns

Brown discharge after taking emergency contraceptive pills?

I started taking the contraceptive pill Wenbunin 30 on January 22nd, and I take it consistently at 10 PM.
After the seventh day of taking the pill, I had unprotected intercourse, but there was no ejaculation.
Later, on January 29th, I noticed that my discharge started to turn brown, and since then, the discharge has increased and has remained brown.

1.
Is there a possibility of pregnancy?
2.
Is the brown discharge considered a side effect?
3.
After starting the medication, I have noticeably experienced a decrease in libido.
What can I do to improve this? I also feel a slight sensation of nausea since taking the medication.
I hope the doctor can provide answers.

Miss He, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/02/08

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the contraceptive pill must be taken continuously for at least seven days to achieve effective contraception.
During this period, if menstruation occurs or bleeding happens, there is no need to stop taking the medication; it should be taken as scheduled.
Once the body adjusts to the contraceptive pill, abnormal bleeding should cease.
However, if irregular bleeding persists for more than three months or if there is heavy bleeding, it is necessary to consult a physician for advice.
If side effects continue or worsen, a medical evaluation is needed to determine whether it is appropriate to continue taking the medication.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2022/02/08

More Info

Brown discharge after taking emergency contraceptives can be concerning, and it's important to understand the potential causes and implications. Let's address your questions one by one.

1. Is there a possibility of pregnancy?
Given that you have been taking the contraceptive pill (温不妊30) consistently and correctly, the likelihood of pregnancy is quite low, especially since you mentioned that there was no ejaculation during the unprotected intercourse. Emergency contraceptive pills are designed to prevent ovulation, fertilization, or implantation of a fertilized egg. However, no contraceptive method is 100% effective. If you are experiencing brown discharge, it could be a sign of hormonal changes rather than pregnancy. If your period is delayed or you have other symptoms of pregnancy (such as nausea, breast tenderness, or fatigue), it would be wise to take a pregnancy test for confirmation.

2. Is brown discharge a side effect?
Yes, brown discharge can be a side effect of hormonal contraceptives. When you start taking birth control pills, your body undergoes hormonal adjustments, which can lead to changes in your menstrual cycle, including spotting or brown discharge. This discharge is often old blood that is being expelled from the body, and it can occur during the adjustment period of starting a new contraceptive method. If the brown discharge persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms (such as severe pain or a foul odor), it would be advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

3. What can be done about decreased libido and nausea?
Decreased libido and nausea are common side effects of hormonal contraceptives. If you find that your sexual desire has significantly decreased, it may be helpful to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They may suggest switching to a different type of contraceptive that may have a different hormonal composition, as some formulations can have less impact on libido. Additionally, lifestyle factors such as stress, fatigue, and emotional well-being can also affect libido, so addressing these areas may help.

For nausea, it can sometimes be alleviated by taking the pill with food or before bedtime to minimize gastrointestinal discomfort. If nausea persists or worsens, it is crucial to speak with your healthcare provider, as they may recommend an alternative contraceptive method or additional treatments to manage this side effect.

In summary, while brown discharge after starting a new contraceptive can be a normal side effect, it is essential to monitor your symptoms. If you have concerns about pregnancy, persistent discharge, or side effects like decreased libido and nausea, consulting with a healthcare professional is the best course of action. They can provide personalized advice and may suggest alternative contraceptive options that better suit your needs.

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