What are the side effects of emergency contraceptive pills?

Mar 09, 2025 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhang Lu

Introduction

In general, emergency contraceptive pills include compound levonorgestrel tablets, levonorgestrel tablets, mifepristone tablets, etc. Their side effects include menstrual cycle disorders, withdrawal bleeding, nausea and vomiting, breast tenderness, headache, and dizziness. Emergency contraceptive pills should not be used frequently as a regular contraceptive method. It is recommended to use them no more than three times per year and at most once per month.

Generally, emergency contraceptive pills include compound levonorgestrel tablets, levonorgestrel tablets, mifepristone tablets, and others. Their side effects include menstrual cycle disorders, withdrawal bleeding, nausea and vomiting, breast tenderness, headache, and dizziness. If medication is necessary, it is recommended to use these drugs under a physician's guidance. Detailed analysis is as follows:

1. Menstrual Cycle Disorders

Emergency contraceptive pills contain large amounts of hormones that can interfere with the normal function of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis, disrupt the hormonal secretion rhythm, and cause the menstrual cycle to become earlier or delayed, resulting in cycle irregularities.

2. Withdrawal Bleeding

Emergency contraceptive pills may cause changes in the endometrium under the influence of hormones, leading to a rapid decline in hormone levels after discontinuation. The endometrium loses hormonal support, causing shedding and bleeding, which results in withdrawal bleeding.

3. Nausea and Vomiting

Components such as hormones in emergency contraceptive pills may stimulate the gastrointestinal mucosa, causing gastrointestinal motility and digestive dysfunction, which can lead to symptoms such as nausea and vomiting. These symptoms commonly occur within a few hours after taking the medication and vary in severity from person to person.

4. Breast Tenderness

Hormones in emergency contraceptive pills may cause hyperplasia and congestion of breast tissue, leading to increased pressure within the breasts, resulting in a feeling of fullness and pain. Touching may stimulate nerves and intensify the pain. This condition usually lasts for several days to about a week.

5. Headache and Dizziness

Emergency contraceptive pills may affect the body's ability to constrict and dilate blood vessels, causing symptoms of headache and dizziness. Headaches may be pulsating or persistent dull aches, while dizziness may affect balance and daily activities, such as feeling unsteady when walking or standing.

Emergency contraceptive pills should not be used frequently as a regular contraceptive method. If severe discomfort or abnormal symptoms persist after taking emergency contraceptive pills, prompt medical attention is advised.

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What happens if you take emergency contraception 15 days after an abortion?

Fifteen days after an abortion, the body has not yet fully recovered. Taking emergency contraceptive pills at this time may generally lead to menstrual disorders, worsen gastrointestinal discomfort, and interfere with endometrial repair. Emergency contraceptive pills contain high doses of hormones. Since hormone levels in the body are already undergoing adjustment after an abortion, taking these pills can easily disrupt hormonal balance, causing the menstrual cycle to come earlier or be delayed, and in some cases may also result in abnormal menstrual flow.

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Will taking emergency contraceptive pills affect the results of a pregnancy test?

In general, the impact of pregnancy after taking emergency contraceptive pills depends on the specific circumstances. If the embryo develops normally, there is usually no need for excessive concern; however, symptoms such as abdominal pain or bleeding may indicate potential adverse effects of the drug on the pregnancy. During pregnancy, it is important to maintain a regular作息 (daily routine), avoid staying up late and overexertion. Maintain a balanced diet with adequate intake of high-quality protein and fresh fruits and vegetables, and avoid smoking, alcohol, and other harmful substances.

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How long will the first use of birth control pills delay menstruation?

In general, the first time taking contraceptive pills may delay menstruation by 1–2 weeks. The exact timing varies depending on the type of contraceptive and individual body conditions; some people may experience earlier periods or no significant change at all. Short-acting contraceptive pills must be taken regularly as prescribed by a doctor, avoiding missed doses. After taking emergency contraceptive pills, monitor your menstrual cycle without excessive anxiety. Maintain a regular daily routine.

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Why can emergency contraceptive pills only be taken three times a year?

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