Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Effects and Concerns

Contraceptive pill issues?

Hello doctor, I had unprotected intercourse on the 26th, and my expected ovulation day was the 27th.
Afterward, I was concerned and took the emergency contraceptive pill (Levonorgestrel).
That same night, I noticed some yellowish discharge, but the next day it changed to a clear discharge similar to what I usually have during ovulation.
In the morning, I noticed just a little bit, not much, and I also felt a bit nauseous.
Can you tell me if the emergency contraceptive pill was effective in this situation? I read online that taking emergency contraception can suppress ovulation, but now I am experiencing discharge.

., 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/11/27

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, if you are considering pregnancy, it is advisable to monitor your situation and it is recommended to use contraceptive measures beforehand.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/11/27

More Info

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), such as the one you mentioned (LNG, commonly known as Plan B or Ella), are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. They work primarily by delaying or inhibiting ovulation, which means they prevent the ovary from releasing an egg. If taken within the recommended time frame (usually within 72 to 120 hours after unprotected sex), they can be quite effective in preventing pregnancy.

Regarding your experience after taking the emergency contraceptive pill, it is not uncommon to notice changes in vaginal discharge or experience mild side effects. The yellowish discharge you observed could be a result of hormonal changes triggered by the ECP. Hormonal fluctuations can lead to various symptoms, including changes in the consistency and color of vaginal discharge. The subsequent clear, stretchy discharge you described is often associated with ovulation, which can occur if the ECP did not fully inhibit ovulation in your case.

It's important to note that while ECPs are effective, they are not 100% guaranteed to prevent pregnancy. The effectiveness can be influenced by several factors, including the timing of the pill relative to your ovulation cycle and how soon after unprotected intercourse you took the pill. If you took the ECP shortly before your expected ovulation, there is a chance that ovulation could still occur, which might explain the clear discharge you experienced.

As for the nausea you mentioned, this is a common side effect of emergency contraceptive pills. Many women report feeling nauseous after taking ECPs, and it can sometimes lead to vomiting. If you do vomit within two hours of taking the pill, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider, as you may need to take another dose.

In terms of whether the ECP worked effectively for you, the best way to confirm this is to take a pregnancy test if your next period is delayed by more than a week. If your period comes as expected, it is a good indication that the ECP was effective. If you have any concerns or if your symptoms persist, it is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

In summary, while the changes in discharge and nausea you experienced can be concerning, they are not uncommon after taking emergency contraceptive pills. The best course of action is to monitor your menstrual cycle and take a pregnancy test if your period is late. If you have further questions or concerns, don't hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for guidance.

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