Emergency Contraception: Your Questions Answered

Q: Emergency Contraception: Your Questions Answered

Hello： 1. The withdrawal bleeding on 3/14 could possibly be caused by the emergency contraceptive pill, which can be considered as the first day of your menstrual period. 2. You can calculate from 3/14 as the first day of your menstrual period. 3. You can take

Regarding emergency contraception?

I would like to ask: My menstrual cycle is regular, lasting 28 to 30 days, and it typically lasts about 5 to 6 days.
My last period started on February 26.
I had sexual intercourse on March 8 and took emergency contraception (Levonorgestrel) that same day.
From March 14 to March 17, I experienced bleeding similar to my period, but the flow was lighter (about one and a half times my usual amount, with a similar color).
I had sexual intercourse again on March 19, but the condom broke, and I did not take any medication.
I would like to ask you: (1) Is the bleeding from March 14 considered my period? (2) How should I calculate my next menstrual cycle? (3) If the bleeding from March 14 to March 17 is not my period, and according to the dates, my period should have come on March 27 but has not, should I take a pregnancy test? When is the best time to test? Thank you for your help.

Jiao lü, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/03/29

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello: 1.
The withdrawal bleeding on 3/14 could possibly be caused by the emergency contraceptive pill, which can be considered as the first day of your menstrual period.
2.
You can calculate from 3/14 as the first day of your menstrual period.
3.
You can take a pregnancy test today (3/29) to check.
National Hsinchu Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Reply Date: 2005/03/29

More Info

Understanding emergency contraception and its effects on your menstrual cycle can be quite complex, especially when considering the timing of your menstrual cycle, the use of emergency contraception, and subsequent sexual activity. Let's break down your questions one by one.

1. Was the bleeding from March 14 to March 17 considered a menstrual period?
The bleeding you experienced after taking Levonorgestrel (an emergency contraceptive pill) could be a side effect of the medication rather than a true menstrual period. Emergency contraception can cause changes in your menstrual cycle, including spotting or bleeding that resembles a period. This bleeding is often lighter and shorter than a regular menstrual period. Since you took the emergency contraceptive shortly after unprotected intercourse, this bleeding could be a withdrawal bleed due to the hormonal changes induced by the pill.
2. How should I calculate my next menstrual cycle?
If we consider the bleeding from March 14 to March 17 as a withdrawal bleed rather than a true menstrual period, you would typically expect your next period to come about 28 to 30 days after the start of that bleeding. However, since emergency contraception can alter your cycle, it may not be as predictable. If you consider March 14 as the start of your cycle, you might expect your next period around April 11 to April 14. If your cycle is usually regular, this is a good estimate, but be aware that it could be delayed due to the hormonal effects of the emergency contraception.

3. If the bleeding from March 14 to March 17 was not a menstrual period, should I take a pregnancy test since my period is late?
If you did not experience a true menstrual period by the expected date (around March 27), it would be advisable to take a pregnancy test. The best time to take a pregnancy test is after you have missed your period, which is typically about one week after the expected date of your next period. If you take the test too early, it may not provide an accurate result due to insufficient levels of the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) in your urine.
In summary, the bleeding you experienced could be a side effect of the emergency contraceptive pill rather than a menstrual period. Your next expected period may be delayed due to the hormonal changes from the pill. If your period does not arrive as expected, taking a pregnancy test after a week of the missed period would be the best course of action.
It's also important to remember that while emergency contraception is effective, it is not 100% guaranteed, and it is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and to discuss any ongoing concerns about your menstrual cycle or contraceptive methods.

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