Question:
Doctor, may I ask how long the side effects of the 72-hour emergency contraceptive pill last and how it affects the menstrual cycle in the following months? I would greatly appreciate your advice. Thank you.
Anonymous Question
Hello, Doctor! I have a question about delayed periods. My last period started on January 8th and ended on January 12th. On January 29th, I had intercourse with my husband, and he used the withdrawal method. However, I was worried about pregnancy, so I took one emergency contraceptive pill. Now I am 12 days late for my period. I have taken three pregnancy tests at different times, and all showed only one line. Could you explain why this is happening? I’ve also noticed an increase in vaginal discharge. Please help me, Doctor. Thank you!
Anonymous Question
Hello, Doctor. My most recent period started on February 9th and ended on February 16th. On the afternoon of March 2nd, I had external contact with my boyfriend where our genital areas touched, but there was no ejaculation. However, I was still worried, so I took a 72-hour emergency contraceptive pill on the evening of March 3rd. After taking the pill, I experienced dizziness, headaches, and occasional abdominal pain in the following days, but there was no bleeding. Could you tell me if the contraception was unsuccessful in this case? I would appreciate your advice. Thank you.
Anonymous Question
Hello, Doctor. Over a month ago, I took a one-dose emergency contraceptive pill, and my period was delayed by 7 days that month. Now, the following month, I’m experiencing another delay. Could this be a side effect of the medication? I hope you can provide advice. Thank you.
Anonymous Question
Answer:
Dear Patient,
The most common side effects associated with emergency contraceptive pills include nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, headaches, dizziness, breast tenderness, and changes in the menstrual cycle.
Typically, these side effects gradually disappear a few days after stopping the medication. However, the pills can cause hormonal changes and disrupt the menstrual cycle for about a month after use. Your period may come earlier or later than usual. If these symptoms persist or worsen, you should visit a healthcare facility for a thorough evaluation.
Thank you for your question to the Vinmec Healthcare System.
Best regards,
Linh Nguyen Thi, PharmD – Department of Pharmacy – Vinmec Da Nang International General Hospital.
Please dial HOTLINE for more information or register for an appointment HERE. Download MyVinmec app to make appointments faster and to manage your bookings easily.
