Why Your Period Might Be Delayed After Taking Emergency Contraceptive

If you have taken the emergency contraceptive pill and your period has not yet arrived, it is important to note that the timing of your menstrual cycle may be affected by the hormonal changes caused by the medication. It is common for periods to be delayed or to experience

Hello, doctor.
I had unprotected sexual intercourse with my girlfriend, and fearing pregnancy, I bought emergency contraception a few hours later.
After that, I experienced 4.5 days of bleeding and abdominal pain two days later.
However, it has now been a week since my expected period, and it still hasn't arrived.

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/05

Dr. Tian Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Emergency contraceptive pills contain high doses of hormones, which can cause menstrual irregularities in some individuals.
If you are not pregnant and have not had your period for more than two months, please consult a gynecologist directly.

Reply Date: 2016/01/05

More Info

The delay of your menstrual period after taking emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) can be attributed to several factors, primarily related to how these medications affect your hormonal balance and menstrual cycle. Emergency contraceptive pills, such as Plan B (levonorgestrel) or Ella (ulipristal acetate), are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. They work primarily by delaying ovulation, which can subsequently influence your menstrual cycle.

When you take ECPs, they can cause a temporary disruption in your hormonal levels. This disruption can lead to changes in your menstrual cycle, including delayed periods. The hormones in ECPs can alter the normal feedback mechanisms in your body that regulate the menstrual cycle, leading to a delay in menstruation. It is not uncommon for women to experience irregular bleeding or spotting after taking ECPs, which can be mistaken for a period. The bleeding you experienced two days after taking the emergency contraceptive could be a side effect of the medication rather than your regular menstrual period.

In your case, since you mentioned that it has been over a week since your expected period and it has not arrived, this could be a result of the hormonal changes induced by the emergency contraceptive. It is important to note that while ECPs are effective in preventing pregnancy, they are not 100% guaranteed, and the timing of your menstrual cycle can be affected.
Additionally, stress and anxiety about the possibility of pregnancy can also contribute to menstrual irregularities. The psychological impact of worrying about unintended pregnancy can lead to hormonal changes that further delay your period. Other factors such as changes in weight, exercise habits, and overall health can also play a role in menstrual cycle irregularities.

If your period does not arrive within a few weeks of the expected date, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy. If the test is negative and your period still does not come, it may be a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed or if further evaluation is necessary.

In summary, the delay in your period after taking emergency contraceptive pills can be attributed to hormonal changes caused by the medication, stress, and other lifestyle factors. If you have concerns about your menstrual cycle or potential pregnancy, seeking medical advice is always a prudent step.

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