Pregnancy Concerns After Emergency Contraception

Q: Pregnancy Concerns After Emergency Contraception

Hello： Gastrointestinal symptoms cannot be definitively attributed to any specific cause, as both premenstrual syndrome and contraceptive pills can present with similar symptoms. <br>Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, cares about your health.

Contraceptive pill pregnancy issues?

On September 24th, I had sexual intercourse and there was ejaculation inside.
I took emergency contraception, but after going to the hospital for an ultrasound and a urine test, I was not pregnant.
Why do I feel nauseous? My period hasn't arrived yet; is there still a chance I could be pregnant?

Xiao Sui, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/09/26

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: Gastrointestinal symptoms cannot be definitively attributed to any specific cause, as both premenstrual syndrome and contraceptive pills can present with similar symptoms.
Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2023/09/26

More Info

When it comes to concerns about pregnancy after taking emergency contraception, it's important to understand how these medications work and what symptoms you might experience afterward. Emergency contraception, such as Plan B (levonorgestrel) or Ella (ulipristal acetate), is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. They work primarily by delaying ovulation, preventing fertilization, or inhibiting implantation of a fertilized egg.

If you took emergency contraception shortly after unprotected intercourse, it is effective in preventing pregnancy, especially if taken within the recommended time frame (within 72 hours for Plan B and up to 120 hours for Ella). The fact that you have undergone an ultrasound and urine test, both of which showed no signs of pregnancy, is a strong indication that you are not pregnant.
However, it is not uncommon to experience symptoms such as nausea or vomiting after taking emergency contraception. These symptoms can be side effects of the medication itself, as hormonal changes can affect your body in various ways. Additionally, stress and anxiety about the possibility of being pregnant can also contribute to feelings of nausea.
Regarding your menstrual cycle, it is important to note that emergency contraception can disrupt your normal hormonal balance, which may lead to changes in your menstrual cycle. You might experience a delay in your period, heavier or lighter bleeding, or even spotting. If your period is late, it could be due to the effects of the emergency contraception rather than an indication of pregnancy.
If your period does not arrive within a week of when you expect it, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test for further confirmation. If the test is negative and your period still does not come, you may want to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out any other underlying issues.

In summary, the symptoms you are experiencing, such as nausea, are likely side effects of the emergency contraception rather than signs of pregnancy, especially given the negative results from your ultrasound and urine test. If you have further concerns or if your symptoms persist, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and reassurance. Remember, it is normal to feel anxious after such situations, and seeking support can be beneficial.

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