Missed Period After Emergency Contraceptive: What to Do Next?

Using emergency contraception, menstruation has not arrived?

The last menstrual period was on June 12, and sexual intercourse occurred on June 22, followed by taking a second-generation emergency contraceptive pill within one hour.
Pregnancy tests on July 8, July 15, and July 25 showed negative results.
As of July 27, menstruation has not yet arrived, and there has been an increase in white, creamy discharge (similar to menthol ointment).
Should I take another pregnancy test, or can pregnancy be ruled out? Is the absence of menstruation due to hormonal imbalance or the use of the emergency contraceptive? Thank you.
Should I take medication to induce menstruation, or is it better to wait for it to arrive naturally? Thank you.

Li Tai Tai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/07/27

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the factors that can affect the menstrual cycle or cause intermenstrual bleeding are numerous, including age, environment, lifestyle, stress, emotional instability, weight changes, medications, emergency contraception, diet, polycystic ovary syndrome, uterine or cervical lesions, infections, ovulation, pregnancy, miscarriage, and breastfeeding, among others.
It is advisable to consult a gynecologist if your period does not arrive, to check for hormonal imbalances or other underlying causes.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2023/07/27

More Info

After taking emergency contraception, it is not uncommon for menstrual cycles to become irregular. The emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) can cause hormonal fluctuations that may lead to changes in your menstrual cycle, including delayed periods. Given your timeline, you had your last menstrual period on June 12, had unprotected intercourse on June 22, and took the emergency contraceptive pill within an hour. Your subsequent pregnancy tests on July 8, July 15, and July 25 were negative, which is reassuring.

The presence of increased white, creamy discharge can also be a side effect of hormonal changes due to the emergency contraceptive pill. This discharge is typically not a cause for concern and can be a normal response to hormonal fluctuations.
Since your period has not arrived by July 27, it is understandable to be anxious about the possibility of pregnancy. However, given that you have had multiple negative pregnancy tests, the likelihood of being pregnant is low. It is important to note that while ECPs are effective, they are not 100% guaranteed to prevent pregnancy, especially if ovulation has already occurred.

In terms of what to do next, here are some recommendations:
1. Wait for Your Period: It is generally advisable to wait a few more days to see if your period arrives. The emergency contraceptive can delay ovulation and, consequently, your period.
2. Consider a Follow-Up Pregnancy Test: If your period does not arrive within a week or so, you may want to take another pregnancy test for peace of mind. Ensure you follow the instructions carefully for the most accurate results.

3. Monitor Symptoms: Keep an eye on any other symptoms you may experience. If you notice any unusual symptoms such as severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, or any signs of pregnancy (nausea, breast tenderness, etc.), it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider.

4. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If your period does not come after a week or two, or if you have concerns about your menstrual cycle or hormonal health, consider scheduling an appointment with a healthcare provider. They can assess whether there may be an underlying issue, such as hormonal imbalance, that needs to be addressed.

5. Avoid Taking Menstrual Induction Medications Without Guidance: It is not recommended to take medications to induce your period without consulting a healthcare professional. These medications can have side effects and may not be appropriate for everyone.

In conclusion, while it is likely that your missed period is a result of the emergency contraceptive pill and not a sign of pregnancy, it is important to monitor your body and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any concerns. Your health and peace of mind are paramount, and a healthcare professional can provide personalized advice based on your specific situation.

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