Postinor Side Effects: What to Expect After Taking Emergency Contraception - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Side effects of Postinor?


Hello, doctor.
Two weeks ago, my girlfriend and I had intercourse and discovered that the condom broke.
It was the first day after her menstrual period ended.
Due to concerns about pregnancy, she took the emergency contraceptive pill, Postinor 2.
A few days later, she started experiencing vaginal bleeding and occasional lower abdominal pain.
This situation has persisted for a week.
I would like to know if these symptoms are side effects of the medication.
I care about her well-being.
Can she take a medication like Panadol Menstrual to alleviate her abdominal pain?

A-Ming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2010/06/01

Dr. Zhong Wenzhen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, sir: Thank you for your inquiry.
I would like to respond to your question and provide the following advice: Postinor is a type of progestin used to induce uterine bleeding for emergency contraception.
As for the lower abdominal pain, the possible causes are complex and may include: poor uterine contractions, incomplete expulsion of blood clots, or other factors such as inflammation or ovarian cysts.
It is advisable to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and treatment, and not to take medication blindly on your own.
Finally, I wish you peace and happiness.

Reply Date: 2010/06/01

More Info


After taking emergency contraception like Postinor 2, it is not uncommon for women to experience side effects such as bleeding and abdominal pain. Postinor 2 contains levonorgestrel, a synthetic progestin that works primarily by preventing ovulation. However, it can also lead to changes in the menstrual cycle and cause various side effects.

The bleeding your girlfriend is experiencing could be a result of hormonal changes induced by the medication. This is often referred to as "withdrawal bleeding," which can occur after taking hormonal contraceptives. It is important to note that this bleeding can vary in intensity and duration; some women may experience light spotting, while others may have heavier bleeding. Abdominal pain can also be a common side effect, often due to uterine contractions as the body adjusts to the hormonal changes.

While these symptoms can be distressing, they are generally not a cause for alarm. However, if the bleeding is excessively heavy (soaking through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours) or if the abdominal pain is severe, it is advisable to seek medical attention. Other potential causes of abdominal pain could include conditions unrelated to the medication, such as ovarian cysts or pelvic inflammatory disease, which would require a healthcare professional's evaluation.

Regarding the use of pain relief medications like Panadol Menstrual, it is generally safe to use over-the-counter pain relievers to alleviate mild to moderate abdominal pain associated with menstrual-like symptoms. Acetaminophen (the active ingredient in Panadol) is typically well-tolerated and can help manage discomfort. However, it is essential to follow the recommended dosage instructions on the packaging and to consult with a healthcare provider if there are any concerns about interactions with other medications or underlying health conditions.

In summary, while the symptoms your girlfriend is experiencing after taking Postinor 2 may be side effects of the medication, they are often manageable. Monitoring the severity of her symptoms is crucial, and if they worsen or do not improve, seeking medical advice is the best course of action. Additionally, using over-the-counter pain relief can be an effective way to manage discomfort, but it should be done cautiously and in accordance with medical advice.

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