Does Emergency Contraceptive Pill Delay Menstruation?

Does emergency contraception extend the menstrual period?

Hello, I would like to ask if taking the emergency contraceptive pill Anliting can cause a delay in my menstrual period.
My menstrual cycle dates are 9/4, 10/2, 10/27, 11/23, and 12/20, averaging 6 days in duration.
On 1/1 in the early morning, I had unprotected intercourse multiple times, but there was no ejaculation.
However, out of concern, I took one dose of Anliting in the evening around 9 PM.
On 1/2, I had protected intercourse multiple times during the day and night, but there was white discharge inside the condom.
One condom broke, but I immediately withdrew and did not stay in for too long.
On 1/3 in the afternoon, I also had multiple instances of protected and unprotected intercourse, similar to the previous day.
This week, I have noticed thick white discharge resembling my previous cervical mucus, and there is no itching or discomfort, so it doesn't feel like an infection.
Could this indicate that my period is approaching, or could it be early pregnancy symptoms? I am quite worried as my period has not yet arrived.
Thank you for your help, doctor.

Shuo, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/13

Dr. Tian Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Emergency contraceptive pills can only provide protection against sexual intercourse that occurred prior to taking the medication; they do not offer protection for sexual activity that takes place after ingestion.
It is recommended that if menstruation does not occur, a pregnancy test should be taken approximately 2-3 weeks after the last sexual encounter.
Emergency contraceptive pills contain high doses of hormones, which may cause menstrual irregularities in some individuals.
If pregnancy is ruled out and menstruation has not occurred for more than two months, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist.
Additionally, for those who frequently engage in sexual activity, it is recommended that women consider long-term use of regular contraceptive pills (which provide optimal contraceptive effectiveness) along with the male partner using condoms (to prevent sexually transmitted infections).
This approach protects both partners.
Emergency contraceptive pills should only be used as a last resort and are not recommended for regular use.
By effectively using regular contraception, there is no need to feel anxious after each sexual encounter.

Reply Date: 2016/01/13

More Info

The use of emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), such as Plan B or similar medications, can indeed affect the timing of your menstrual cycle. ECPs primarily work by delaying ovulation, preventing fertilization, or inhibiting implantation of a fertilized egg. However, one of the common side effects of taking ECPs is a change in your menstrual cycle, which can include a delay in the onset of your period.

In your case, you took the emergency contraceptive pill on January 1st after engaging in unprotected intercourse. It is not uncommon for women to experience changes in their menstrual cycle after taking ECPs. Some women may find that their period arrives earlier than expected, while others may experience a delay. The delay can be due to hormonal fluctuations caused by the ECP, which can disrupt your regular cycle.

Given your previous menstrual dates, if your cycle is typically around 28 days and lasts for about 6 days, your next expected period would be around January 4th to January 5th. Since you have not yet received your period and are experiencing white, thick discharge, it is understandable to feel concerned. The discharge you describe could be a normal premenstrual symptom or a sign of ovulation, which can also occur after taking ECPs.
It is important to note that while ECPs are effective in preventing pregnancy, they are not 100% guaranteed. If you are experiencing symptoms that are unusual for you, such as significant changes in discharge or if your period is delayed beyond a week, it would be wise to take a home pregnancy test for reassurance. These tests are generally reliable and can provide you with a clearer understanding of your situation.

If the test is negative and your period still does not arrive, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider. They can offer guidance and help determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed. Additionally, if you have concerns about potential pregnancy or the effects of the emergency contraceptive pill on your cycle, discussing these with a healthcare professional can provide peace of mind and clarity.

In summary, yes, taking an emergency contraceptive pill can delay your menstruation. It is not uncommon for your cycle to be affected, and the symptoms you are experiencing could be related to hormonal changes. Monitoring your body and considering a pregnancy test if your period does not arrive soon is advisable. If you have further concerns, seeking medical advice is always a good step.

Similar Q&A

Does Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills Delay Menstrual Periods?

Consulting a doctor: I have been teasing my girlfriend during her menstrual period for 2-3 days, and we had sexual intercourse but did not fully ejaculate. She took the morning-after pill, but she usually has a regular cycle of 28 days, and her period has not arrived this time. W...

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
The principle of emergency contraceptive pills is based on high doses of hormones (progestin or estrogen), which interfere with the endometrium, making it difficult for the embryo to implant. Common side effects of taking emergency contraceptive pills include 1. gastrointestinal ...

Impact of Emergency Contraceptive Pills on Menstrual Cycle Delays

On February 19, menstruation started, and on February 24, intercourse occurred. A few hours later, emergency contraception was taken. From February 28 to March 2, there was some bleeding (not a large amount). Today is March 27, and menstruation for March has not yet occurred. Cou...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, emergency contraceptive pills can sometimes cause irregular menstruation. It is best to use preventive measures beforehand. If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to see a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.

Does Emergency Contraceptive Pill Delay Menstrual Periods?

Hello, doctor. I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend on June 21, and the condom broke. My boyfriend did not ejaculate inside; instead, he withdrew, and I took the emergency contraceptive pill (Levonorgestrel) two hours later. My menstrual cycles were from January 6 to Januar...

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. Taking emergency contraceptive pills may interfere with ovarian function, leading to menstrual irregularities. 2. The likelihood of pregnancy is low. 3. However, if menstruation is significantly delayed, a pregnancy test should still be conducted to confirm whether pregnancy h...

Can Emergency Contraceptive Pills Delay Your Period?

Hello, doctor. I would like to ask if emergency contraceptive pills can cause a delay in my menstrual period. My menstrual cycle is not very regular, but it averages about 24 days. I had my last period on November 2, then again on November 23, and on December 16, I had unprotecte...

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Consult a physician to check for hormonal imbalances in order to confirm the diagnosis.