Post-Pill Bleeding: Menstrual Cycle Impacts and Concerns

Post-coital bleeding?

I took emergency contraception (Postinor) on January 5th, and I started bleeding on January 10th, which lasted for 4 days (my next period is expected around January 20th).
I took a home pregnancy test 12 days after taking the emergency contraception, and it was negative.
Is this bleeding my period or a side effect of the medication? When can I expect my next menstrual cycle? Thank you.

danxin, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/17

Dr. Tian Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Emergency contraceptive pills contain high doses of hormones, which may cause the next menstrual period to be delayed or occur earlier.
The next menstrual cycle should be calculated starting from the date of the bleeding that occurs after taking the emergency contraceptive.

Reply Date: 2016/01/17

More Info

Post-pill bleeding, especially after taking emergency contraception like Plan B (后丽安锭), can often lead to confusion regarding its nature and implications for your menstrual cycle. When you take emergency contraception, it can cause changes in your menstrual cycle due to the high dose of hormones it contains.
In your case, you took the emergency contraceptive on January 5th and experienced bleeding starting on January 10th, lasting for four days. This bleeding could be a side effect of the medication rather than a regular menstrual period. Emergency contraceptives can disrupt your normal hormonal balance, leading to what is often referred to as "withdrawal bleeding." This bleeding can occur within a few days after taking the pill and may not necessarily align with your typical menstrual cycle.

Regarding your next menstrual cycle, it is difficult to predict exactly when it will occur after taking emergency contraception. The hormonal changes induced by the pill can cause your next period to be earlier, later, or even irregular. Typically, you can expect your next period to arrive within a few weeks of when it is normally due, but it may be affected by the emergency contraceptive. If your cycle is usually around 28 days, and you expect your period around January 20th, it might still come around that time, but it could also be delayed.

Since you have already taken a pregnancy test 12 days after taking the emergency contraceptive and it was negative, it is a good sign that you are not pregnant. However, if your next period does not arrive within a week of when you expect it, or if you experience any unusual symptoms, it would be wise to take another pregnancy test or consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, the bleeding you experienced is likely a side effect of the emergency contraceptive rather than a regular menstrual period. Your next menstrual cycle may be irregular due to the hormonal changes from the pill. If you have concerns about your menstrual cycle or any symptoms that arise, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current situation.

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