Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Your Questions Answered

Emergency contraceptive pill issues?

1.
If you started taking the oral contraceptive pill five days after your period ended and have completed one pack, it may not provide effective contraception for the first cycle.
It's generally recommended to start taking the pill at least seven days before engaging in unprotected intercourse for optimal effectiveness.
2.
Starting the pill after your period may not necessarily disrupt your menstrual cycle, but it can lead to irregularities, especially in the first few months of use.
If you do not have a period within seven days after finishing the pack, you should take a pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy.
3.
Experiencing breast tenderness towards the end of the pack could be a side effect of the hormonal changes from the pill, but it can also indicate that your period is approaching.

4.
If your last sexual intercourse was on the first day after your period and you used a condom, and you took a pregnancy test 21 days later that was negative, it is likely accurate.
However, if you have concerns or experience any unusual symptoms, it's advisable to consult with a healthcare provider.
Thank you very much.

nvhai'er, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/10/30

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
I have finished one pack, and it still has contraceptive effects.

2.
It is acceptable to take it after the menstrual period instead of during the first five days; it will not disrupt the menstrual cycle.

3.
Experiencing breast tenderness in the last few days does not necessarily indicate that menstruation is approaching.

4.
A pregnancy test taken 21 days later was negative, which is accurate, so there is no need for concern.

Respectfully, Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/10/30

More Info

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are a crucial option for preventing unintended pregnancies after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. Understanding how they work, their effectiveness, and their impact on the menstrual cycle is essential for anyone considering their use.

1. Effectiveness of the ECPs: If you started taking the emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) five days after your menstrual period ended and completed the course, they can still be effective. ECPs are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours, but some types can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after. However, if you did not have unprotected intercourse during the time you were taking the pills, the risk of pregnancy is significantly reduced, and the pills would have served their purpose in preventing ovulation.

2. Impact on Menstrual Cycle: Starting ECPs after your period is unlikely to disrupt your menstrual cycle significantly. However, ECPs can cause temporary changes in your cycle, including delays or alterations in the timing of your next period. If you do not get your period within a week of when you expect it, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy, as ECPs are not 100% effective.

3. Symptoms of Breast Tenderness: Experiencing breast tenderness while taking ECPs can be a common side effect due to hormonal changes induced by the medication. This symptom does not necessarily indicate that your period is imminent, but it can be a sign of hormonal fluctuations. Many women report similar symptoms when their menstrual cycle is approaching, but it is not a definitive indicator.

4. Pregnancy Test Accuracy: The fact that you had a negative pregnancy test 21 days after your last unprotected intercourse is a good sign. Pregnancy tests are generally accurate when taken after a missed period, and testing at this point should provide a reliable result. If you tested negative and have not had unprotected intercourse since, the likelihood of pregnancy is low.

In summary, your use of ECPs after your menstrual period should not significantly disrupt your cycle, and the symptoms you are experiencing could be related to hormonal changes rather than an indication of pregnancy. If your period does not arrive within a week of when you expect it, taking a pregnancy test is a prudent step. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and to address any concerns regarding your reproductive health.

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