Stopping Birth Control Mid-Cycle: Risks and Concerns Explained

Mid-cycle discontinuation of emergency contraceptive pills?

Hello, I started taking the emergency contraceptive pill on the first day of my menstrual period on February 19, and today marks the 11th day (I have been taking it on time).
However, since the first day of taking the pill, I have experienced chest tightness and slight difficulty breathing (severe enough at times that I need to breathe through my mouth to feel more comfortable).
On the first day, I had noticeable dizziness, and today I feel dizzy like I have anemia, along with a slight pain in my left calf (similar to post-exercise soreness; I do exercise, so I'm unsure if it's related to the medication).
I had a blood test today, and there were no issues with thrombosis.
The doctor said it’s okay to continue taking the pill, but I can choose to stop if I feel uncomfortable (especially with the breathing issues).
I hope to stop taking the pill tomorrow (March 1), but I had unprotected intercourse with my boyfriend yesterday (without ejaculation).
If I stop taking the pill tomorrow, is there a risk of pregnancy? Additionally, if I stop the medication, I expect to start bleeding in early March, followed by my regular menstrual period.
Will stopping the medication after 11 days cause disruption to my menstrual cycle and harm my body?

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

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the oral contraceptive pill must be taken consistently every day at the same time to be effective, especially during the first 12 days of use, as missing doses can reduce its contraceptive efficacy.
If you stop taking the pill now, it is possible to experience irregular cycles for a while.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Chang

Reply Date: 2016/02/29

More Info

Stopping birth control mid-cycle can raise several concerns and risks that are important to understand, especially when considering the potential for unintended pregnancy and the effects on your menstrual cycle.
When you begin taking hormonal birth control, it typically takes about seven days for the contraceptive effects to become fully effective, depending on the type of pill you are using. If you stop taking the pill after only 11 days, especially after having unprotected intercourse, there is a possibility of becoming pregnant. While you mentioned that there was no ejaculation, sperm can still be present in pre-ejaculate fluid, which means there is still a risk of pregnancy if you stop the pill abruptly.

In terms of your health concerns, the symptoms you are experiencing—chest tightness, difficulty breathing, dizziness, and leg pain—are significant and should not be taken lightly. While your doctor has indicated that there are no signs of thrombosis (blood clots), it is essential to monitor these symptoms closely. Hormonal contraceptives can sometimes lead to side effects that may mimic or mask more serious conditions, including cardiovascular issues. If you continue to experience these symptoms, it would be prudent to seek further evaluation, possibly from a cardiologist or a specialist in women's health.

Regarding the potential for menstrual irregularities, stopping birth control mid-cycle can indeed lead to changes in your menstrual cycle. Hormonal contraceptives regulate your cycle by providing consistent levels of hormones, and stopping them can disrupt this balance. You may experience breakthrough bleeding, changes in the timing of your next period, or even missed periods altogether. These changes are generally temporary, and your cycle should normalize over time, but it can take a few months for your body to adjust after stopping hormonal birth control.

It's also worth noting that if you are considering stopping the pill due to side effects, it may be beneficial to discuss alternative contraceptive methods with your healthcare provider. There are various options available, including non-hormonal methods, which may better suit your needs without causing the discomfort you are currently experiencing.

In summary, stopping birth control mid-cycle does carry risks, including the potential for unintended pregnancy and menstrual irregularities. Your health symptoms should be closely monitored, and if they persist or worsen, further medical evaluation is warranted. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making changes to your contraceptive regimen to ensure that you are making the best decision for your health and well-being.

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