How Long Does Irregular Menstruation Last After Taking Emergency Contraceptive?

How long does irregular menstruation last after taking emergency contraception?

In February, menstruation started on February 9, and in March, it began on March 8.
On March 12, my boyfriend had unprotected intercourse; although he did not ejaculate, to minimize the risk, I took emergency contraception (Ella) on March 14.
After that, I experienced what seemed like menstrual bleeding for about five days starting on March 18.
My period then returned on April 7.
Is this irregularity due to taking the emergency contraception? How long should irregular menstruation last before seeking medical treatment? Thank you.

C, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/04/07

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, emergency contraceptive pills can sometimes cause irregular menstruation, but it usually normalizes over time.
Just monitor the situation.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/04/07

More Info

Irregular menstruation after taking emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) is a common occurrence and can be attributed to the hormonal changes induced by these medications. ECPs, such as the one you mentioned (安立婷), contain hormones that can disrupt your normal menstrual cycle.
When you take an emergency contraceptive, it can lead to changes in the timing, flow, and duration of your next menstrual period. In your case, you experienced bleeding around March 18, which could be a side effect of the ECP. This bleeding is often referred to as "withdrawal bleeding" and is not the same as a regular menstrual period. It can occur within a few days to a couple of weeks after taking the pill, depending on your individual hormonal response.

Your subsequent menstrual cycle on April 7 may have returned to a more typical pattern, but it is also possible that the ECP has caused some irregularity. Generally, after taking emergency contraception, it is common for the next period to be earlier, later, heavier, or lighter than usual. Most women find that their cycles return to normal within one to three months after taking ECPs, but this can vary widely.

If your menstrual irregularities persist beyond this timeframe, or if you experience other concerning symptoms such as severe pain, excessive bleeding, or signs of pregnancy (like missed periods or unusual symptoms), it would be advisable to consult a healthcare provider. They can perform a thorough evaluation, which may include a physical examination and possibly blood tests or imaging, to rule out any underlying conditions that could be contributing to the irregularities.

In summary, while it is normal to experience some irregularities in your menstrual cycle after taking emergency contraception, these changes typically resolve within a few months. If you have concerns about your menstrual health or if the irregularities continue, seeking medical advice is the best course of action. Your healthcare provider can offer personalized guidance and support based on your specific situation.

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