Can I Take Menstrual Induction Pills After Emergency Contraceptive?

Can emergency contraception be taken with menstrual induction medication?

Hello Doctor, I took emergency contraception on August 1st, and I started experiencing painful urination on August 4th, so I went to the hospital to see a gynecologist on August 5th.
The doctor conducted a more thorough examination and diagnosed me with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Additionally, since I have always had irregular menstrual cycles, the doctor suggested that I try taking oral contraceptives to help regulate my cycle and provide contraception.
Before starting the oral contraceptives, the doctor prescribed me medication to induce menstruation, calculating my cycle and advising me to take the medication from August 8th to August 19th.
I was told to start the oral contraceptives after my period began.
However, I did not mention to the doctor that I had taken emergency contraception on August 1st, and I experienced bleeding on August 6th.
I am wondering if this bleeding is a side effect of the emergency contraception or if it is my period, as the amount is similar to my usual menstrual flow.
My question is, if I am still experiencing bleeding, should I follow the doctor's instructions and start taking the medication to induce menstruation on August 8th? Could the combination of emergency contraception and the medication to induce menstruation, both of which contain high levels of hormones, overload my body? Or should I start taking the oral contraceptives directly on the fifth day of this bleeding? Thank you, Doctor! 🙏🏻

c, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/08/07

Dr. Chen Zhiyu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello! It is recommended that you return for a consultation with your original prescribing physician.
Thank you.

Reply Date: 2022/08/07

More Info

When considering the use of menstrual induction pills after taking emergency contraceptive pills, it is essential to understand the hormonal dynamics involved and how they may affect your body. Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), such as those taken on August 1, contain high doses of hormones that can disrupt your menstrual cycle temporarily. This disruption can lead to unexpected bleeding, which you experienced on August 6.
The bleeding you observed could be a side effect of the ECPs, often referred to as withdrawal bleeding, or it could be an early onset of your menstrual cycle. Given that you have a history of irregular periods and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), your body may react unpredictably to hormonal changes.
Regarding the use of menstrual induction pills, it is crucial to follow your doctor's advice. If your doctor has instructed you to start taking the menstrual induction medication on August 8, it is generally safe to do so, even if you are currently experiencing bleeding. The menstrual induction pills are designed to help regulate your cycle and may assist in managing the irregularities associated with PCOS. However, taking both ECPs and menstrual induction pills in close succession can lead to increased hormonal levels in your body, which may cause side effects such as nausea, headaches, or mood swings.

It is important to note that while both medications contain hormones, they serve different purposes. ECPs are intended to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse, while menstrual induction pills are meant to regulate your menstrual cycle. If you begin taking the menstrual induction pills while experiencing bleeding, it is unlikely to cause significant harm, but it may lead to more pronounced side effects due to the hormonal load.

If you are uncertain about whether to start the menstrual induction pills while bleeding, or if you experience any unusual symptoms (such as severe pain, heavy bleeding, or prolonged bleeding), it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance. They can assess your situation more thoroughly and provide recommendations based on your medical history and current condition.

In summary, you can generally follow your doctor's instructions to start the menstrual induction pills on August 8, even if you are experiencing bleeding. However, monitor your body’s response closely and maintain open communication with your healthcare provider to ensure that your treatment plan is safe and effective for your specific needs.

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