Post-Pill Symptoms: What to Expect After Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraceptive pill

Hello, doctor: I would like to ask if it is normal for my girlfriend to experience abdominal bloating after taking the emergency contraceptive pill? The next day, she felt dizzy, had a decreased appetite, and experienced some uterine discomfort.
Is this normal? Today is the third day after taking the medication, and she has not had any bleeding yet.

123, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/26

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, after taking contraceptive pills, it is not possible to determine pregnancy based solely on subjective symptoms, and menstruation may not necessarily come early or be delayed.
It is recommended to take a pregnancy test if your period is more than a week late.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2015/07/26

More Info

After taking emergency contraception, it is not uncommon for individuals to experience a range of symptoms due to the hormonal changes induced by the medication. Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), such as Plan B or Ella, contain hormones that can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle, leading to various side effects.
Firstly, abdominal bloating is a common symptom after taking ECPs. This can be attributed to the hormonal fluctuations that the body undergoes as a response to the high doses of hormones in the pills. These hormones can affect the gastrointestinal tract, leading to sensations of bloating or discomfort.
Headaches and dizziness are also frequently reported side effects. These symptoms can occur as the body adjusts to the sudden influx of hormones. It is important to stay hydrated and rest if experiencing these symptoms. If the dizziness is severe or persistent, it may be advisable to consult a healthcare provider.

Regarding the sensation of uterine pain, this can be another side effect of ECPs. The hormones can cause the uterus to contract, which may lead to cramping or discomfort. This is generally considered normal, but if the pain is severe or accompanied by heavy bleeding, it would be prudent to seek medical attention.

As for the absence of bleeding three days after taking the pill, this can vary significantly from person to person. Some individuals may experience bleeding within a few days, while others may not see any bleeding until their next expected period. The timing of the next menstrual cycle can also be affected by the ECP, leading to delays or changes in flow.
It is essential to remember that while ECPs are effective at preventing pregnancy, they are not 100% guaranteed. If there is any concern about potential pregnancy, especially if the next menstrual period is significantly delayed (more than a week), it is advisable to take a pregnancy test.
In summary, the symptoms your girlfriend is experiencing—abdominal bloating, dizziness, and uterine discomfort—are generally normal after taking emergency contraception. However, if any symptoms worsen or if there are concerns about pregnancy, it is always best to consult a healthcare professional for personalized advice and reassurance.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Symptoms and Concerns

If you took emergency contraception three hours after unprotected intercourse and then experienced abdominal pain, cold sweats, and bleeding about five hours later, it is possible that these symptoms are related to the medication rather than a sign of a fertilized egg that has no...

Dr. Yang Wangjun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: The most common side effect of emergency contraceptive pills is nausea, followed by lower abdominal pain, headache, dizziness, and vomiting. Additionally, symptoms such as breast tenderness and vaginal bleeding may occur. Therefore, your symptoms are likely caused by the e...

Understanding Post-Pill Symptoms: What to Expect After Taking Emergency Contraceptive

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask about the physical issues my girlfriend is experiencing after taking Ella (ulipristal acetate). We had sexual intercourse on January 19, and I accidentally ejaculated inside her. About an hour later, she took Ella as an emergency contraceptive. ...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, I'm sorry I cannot provide a diagnosis based on what you've described. It could be inflammation. If you continue to feel unwell or if your period is more than a week late, I recommend seeing a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.

Emergency Contraceptive Pills: What to Expect After Taking Them

Taking emergency contraception (1.5) and vomiting a day and a half later, followed by a very light menstrual flow that is less than a typical period, raises concerns about the possibility of pregnancy. However, emergency contraception is designed to prevent pregnancy, and the lig...

Dr. Huang Yuande reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Thank you for your question. It is normal to experience vaginal bleeding approximately 3-5 days after taking emergency contraception. Additionally, the effectiveness of emergency contraception is more certain when taken within 48 hours after sexual intercourse.

Understanding Post-Pill Bleeding: What to Expect After Emergency Contraception

Hello, doctor. I have a few questions regarding the use of emergency contraceptive pills: 1. Will there definitely be bleeding after taking the medication? 2. If there is bleeding, approximately how many days after taking the medication will it start (for example, if taken on Sat...

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. Will there definitely be bleeding after taking the emergency contraceptive pill? Answer: Not necessarily. 2. If there is bleeding, when does it typically start after taking the medication (for example, if taken at 11:30 PM on Saturday, when can bleeding be expected)? An...