Post-Pill Nausea: Symptoms After Emergency Contraception

Feeling nauseous two days after taking emergency contraception?

Hello, Doctor! My last menstrual period started on January 15 and ended around January 21 or 22.
I had sexual intercourse in the early morning of February 11, and I felt a bit insecure (we used a condom, but I suspect there might have been an issue, so I'm worried).
Then, on February 15 at noon, I took the emergency contraceptive pill as per the doctor's instructions.
I was supposed to get my period on February 15, but after taking the pill, I didn't get it for two days.
After finishing the medication, I felt fine that day, but the next day I started experiencing chills, nausea, and palpitations.
I'm very concerned and don't understand why I'm having these symptoms.
I have been under significant stress from mid-January to mid-February due to some issues, and I usually experience severe premenstrual anxiety.
This month, my emotions have been very unstable, and I also experienced some premenstrual syndrome symptoms the week before the 15th.
Could this be related to the delayed menstruation? Is there a high chance of pregnancy? Thank you, Doctor!

Xiao Si, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/17

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

What you need is not medical advice but rather a refresher on sexual health knowledge.
For such questions, it is recommended to refer to the National Health Administration's "Sexual Well-being e-Learning" or the Obstetrics and Gynecology Society's "Consultation Guide for Adolescent Contraception" at http://goo.gl/dc6PfW.

Hello, the effectiveness of emergency contraception taken within 72 hours after intercourse is about 97%, but it is not 100%, with a failure rate of approximately 3%.
The effects of emergency contraception on menstruation can vary, and it may not necessarily cause a period to come early or late.
Additionally, early pregnancy may not present specific symptoms, and subjective symptoms cannot be used to make a judgment.
It is advisable 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: 2016/02/17

More Info

Post-Pill Nausea and Symptoms After Emergency Contraception: Understanding Your Concerns
It sounds like you are experiencing a range of symptoms following the use of emergency contraception (EC), which is not uncommon. Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), such as the one you took, can lead to various side effects, including nausea, vomiting, fatigue, and changes in your menstrual cycle. Let's break down your concerns and symptoms to provide a clearer understanding.

Understanding Emergency Contraception
Emergency contraception is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. The most common types of ECPs contain hormones that can delay ovulation, prevent fertilization, or inhibit implantation of a fertilized egg. The specific medication you took is likely a levonorgestrel-based pill, which is effective when taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex.

Symptoms After Taking Emergency Contraception
1. Nausea and Vomiting: Nausea is a well-documented side effect of ECPs. It can occur due to the hormonal changes induced by the medication. If you experience severe nausea or vomiting, it is essential to consult your healthcare provider.

2. Delayed Menstruation: It is not unusual for your menstrual cycle to be disrupted after taking ECPs. You mentioned that your period was expected on February 15, but it has not arrived yet. Hormonal fluctuations can lead to changes in the timing of your menstrual cycle, and it may be delayed by a few days to a week or more.

3. Other Symptoms: The chills, palpitations, and emotional instability you are experiencing could be related to the stress and anxiety surrounding the situation, as well as the hormonal changes from the ECP. Stress can significantly impact your menstrual cycle and overall well-being.

Pregnancy Concerns
Regarding your concern about pregnancy, while ECPs are effective, no contraceptive method is 100% foolproof. If your period does not arrive within a week of the expected date, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test for reassurance. If the test is positive, or if you continue to experience symptoms that concern you, please consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.

Stress and Emotional Well-being
You mentioned experiencing significant stress and premenstrual symptoms. Stress can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and may contribute to physical symptoms, including nausea and mood swings. It is essential to address both your physical and emotional health. Consider speaking with a healthcare professional about your stress levels and any coping strategies that may help.

Conclusion
In summary, the symptoms you are experiencing after taking emergency contraception are likely related to the hormonal effects of the medication and the stress you are under. It is essential to monitor your symptoms and take a pregnancy test if your period does not arrive as expected. If you have any further concerns or if your symptoms worsen, please reach out to your healthcare provider for personalized advice and support. Remember, your health and peace of mind are important, and seeking help is always a good step.

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