Will My Period Come After Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills?

Will I get my period after taking emergency contraception if I am pregnant?

If a doctor performed internal ejaculation and you took the emergency contraceptive pill but it has been more than 72 hours since ovulation and your period has not arrived, it is possible that you could be pregnant.
However, it is also possible that the emergency contraceptive pill has affected your menstrual cycle.
The presence of yellowish discharge can be due to various factors, including hormonal changes or an infection.
It is advisable to take a pregnancy test and consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Tang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/05/13

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, to determine if you are pregnant, you should wait 12 days after intercourse to take a pregnancy test.
If the test is negative after 12 days, it indicates that you are not pregnant.
Wishing you good health!

Reply Date: 2024/05/13

More Info

Taking emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) can indeed affect your menstrual cycle, and it's not uncommon for women to experience changes in their period after taking these medications. ECPs, such as Plan B or Ella, are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure, and they work primarily by delaying ovulation.
If you took the emergency contraceptive pill after unprotected intercourse and it has been more than 72 hours since then, it is important to note that the effectiveness of the pill decreases significantly after this time frame. However, if you took the pill within the recommended time, it may still work to prevent ovulation and fertilization.

Regarding your concern about your period not arriving after taking the ECP, there are a few possibilities to consider:
1. Delay in Menstruation: ECPs can cause hormonal fluctuations that may lead to a delay in your menstrual cycle. It's not unusual for your period to come later than expected after taking the pill. Some women may experience their period a week or more late.

2. Pregnancy: If your period is significantly delayed (more than a week past when you expected it), there is a possibility of pregnancy. ECPs are not 100% effective, and if ovulation has already occurred before taking the pill, there is a chance that fertilization could happen.

3. Changes in Discharge: The yellowish discharge you mentioned could be due to hormonal changes caused by the ECP. Hormonal fluctuations can lead to changes in cervical mucus, which may appear different than usual.

4. Other Factors: Stress, illness, changes in weight, and other lifestyle factors can also affect your menstrual cycle. If you have experienced significant stress or changes in your routine, this could contribute to a delayed period.

If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, the best course of action is to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are most accurate when taken after your expected period date. If the test is positive, you should consult with a healthcare provider for further guidance. If the test is negative and your period still does not arrive, it may be wise to consult with a healthcare professional to discuss your symptoms and any further steps you should take.

In summary, while it is possible that your period may be delayed due to the emergency contraceptive pill, it is also important to rule out pregnancy if your period does not arrive soon. Monitoring your body and seeking medical advice when necessary is key to managing your reproductive health.

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