Post-Pill Bleeding: What to Expect After Emergency Contraception

Situations for Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills

Doctor, my girlfriend's menstrual period was from February 16 to February 22.
We had unprotected sexual intercourse on the 23rd, so she took emergency contraception.
On February 25, she experienced some bleeding, but then it stopped.
However, on February 28, she had bleeding again, which was dark in color.
Is this situation normal?

Māo, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/28

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Taking emergency contraceptive pills may result in slight bleeding, which is considered normal.

Reply Date: 2016/02/28

More Info

After taking emergency contraception, it's not uncommon for women to experience some irregular bleeding or spotting. This can be a result of the hormonal changes induced by the medication. In your girlfriend's case, the timeline you provided indicates that she had her menstrual period from February 16 to February 22, had unprotected intercourse on February 23, and subsequently took the emergency contraceptive pill.
The bleeding she experienced on February 25 could be considered a side effect of the emergency contraception, which is often referred to as "post-pill bleeding." This bleeding can vary in color and consistency, and it may not resemble a typical menstrual period. The fact that she experienced black-colored blood on February 28 is also not unusual; darker blood often indicates older blood that has taken longer to exit the body.

Emergency contraception works primarily by delaying ovulation, preventing fertilization, or preventing a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus. The hormonal changes caused by the pill can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle, leading to unexpected bleeding. This bleeding can occur within a few days after taking the pill and may last for a few days to a week.

It's important to note that while some irregular bleeding is normal, there are certain situations where further evaluation may be necessary. If the bleeding is excessively heavy (soaking through a pad or tampon every hour), lasts longer than a week, or is accompanied by severe pain, it would be advisable for her to seek medical attention. Additionally, if she misses her next period or experiences other unusual symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain or signs of infection, she should consult a healthcare provider.

In summary, the bleeding your girlfriend is experiencing after taking emergency contraception is likely a normal response to the hormonal changes. However, if there are any concerns about the amount or duration of the bleeding, or if she experiences any alarming symptoms, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and care.

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