Menstrual Changes After Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills

Menstruation delay after taking emergency contraceptive pills?

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask some questions.
I had sexual intercourse on January 1st and 2nd without a condom, but there was no ejaculation inside.
On January 2nd, I took the emergency contraceptive pill.
On January 7th, I experienced bleeding that was similar to a menstrual period, but it was a deep brown color and lasted about 4 to 5 days.
My last menstrual period started on December 23rd and also lasted about 4 to 5 days.
However, since taking the contraceptive pill, I have not had my period yet.
I used a pregnancy test on January 18th and January 29th, both showing one line.
I would like to ask you if my menstrual cycle has become irregular, and if the bleeding on the 7th could be considered my period.
Since my menstrual cycle is usually irregular, is it possible that my period could be delayed for several more days? Also, is there still a possibility of pregnancy given the bleeding I experienced? Thank you, Doctor, for your answers.

xiat, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/02/06

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the effects of emergency contraceptive pills on menstruation can vary; they may cause your period to come early or late.
Additionally, their contraceptive effectiveness is not 100%, with a failure rate of about 3%.
It is recommended to check for pregnancy if your period is more than a week late.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Chang

Reply Date: 2023/02/06

More Info

Understanding menstrual changes after taking emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) is crucial for anyone who has recently engaged in unprotected sexual intercourse and is concerned about potential pregnancy. In your case, you had unprotected sex on January 1 and 2, followed by taking an emergency contraceptive pill on January 2. You then experienced bleeding on January 7, which you described as resembling a menstrual period but was dark brown in color and lasted for about 4 to 5 days.
Firstly, it is important to note that emergency contraceptive pills, such as Plan B (levonorgestrel) or Ella (ulipristal acetate), can cause changes in your menstrual cycle. These pills work primarily by delaying ovulation, preventing fertilization, or preventing a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus. After taking ECPs, some women may experience irregular bleeding or spotting, which can be mistaken for a menstrual period. This bleeding can occur due to hormonal fluctuations caused by the medication.

The bleeding you experienced on January 7 could indeed be a side effect of the emergency contraceptive pill rather than a regular menstrual period. It is not uncommon for women to experience changes in their menstrual cycle after taking ECPs, including earlier or later periods, lighter or heavier bleeding, or even spotting. Since you mentioned that your menstrual cycle is already irregular, it is possible that the ECPs have further contributed to this irregularity.

Regarding your concern about pregnancy, the fact that you had two negative pregnancy tests on January 18 and January 29 is reassuring. Home pregnancy tests are generally reliable when used correctly, especially if taken after a missed period. Since you experienced bleeding shortly after taking the ECP, it is likely that the pill was effective in preventing pregnancy. However, if you continue to have concerns or if your period does not arrive within a few weeks, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, the bleeding you experienced on January 7 may be a result of the emergency contraceptive pill rather than a regular menstrual period. Given your history of irregular cycles, it is possible that your menstrual cycle may take some time to normalize. If you have any further concerns about potential pregnancy or your menstrual health, please reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice and support.

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