What are the side effects of emergency contraceptive pills?

Generally speaking, emergency contraceptive pills are used as a post-coital method of contraception, and their side effects mainly include menstrual disorders, gastrointestinal discomfort, breast tenderness, dizziness and fatigue, and irregular vaginal bleeding. A detailed explanation is as follows:

1. Menstrual disorders: Emergency contraceptive pills contain high doses of hormones that can interfere with the normal endocrine cycle, potentially causing menstruation to occur earlier or later than usual. Some individuals may also experience increased or decreased menstrual flow. Such disturbances typically last for 1-2 cycles, and menstruation gradually returns to normal as the body's hormone levels recover.

2. Gastrointestinal discomfort: After taking emergency contraceptive pills, some people may experience gastrointestinal reactions such as nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, or diarrhea. These symptoms usually appear within 24 hours of taking the medication. The symptoms are generally mild and short-lived, typically resolving on their own without special treatment.

3. Breast tenderness: The hormonal components in emergency contraceptive pills may stimulate breast tissue, causing mild breast tenderness or pain upon touch. This symptom is similar to breast discomfort experienced before menstruation and usually subsides gradually within a few days, without causing long-term effects on breast health.

4. Dizziness and fatigue: Some individuals may experience neurological symptoms such as dizziness, headache, fatigue, or drowsiness after taking emergency contraceptive pills. These symptoms are usually related to the drug's short-term stimulation on the body. Generally, symptoms can be relieved with rest and do not last long or leave lasting complications.

5. Irregular vaginal bleeding: A small number of individuals may experience light irregular vaginal bleeding about a week after taking emergency contraceptive pills. This is a normal reaction caused by changes in the body's hormone levels. The amount of bleeding is usually less than a normal menstrual period.

When using emergency contraceptive pills, it is important to note that they are only suitable for occasional emergency use and should not be used frequently as a regular contraceptive method. It is recommended not to use them more than three times a year. Individuals with a history of severe liver or kidney disease, thromboembolic disorders, or other related medical conditions should use them cautiously and must make informed and appropriate choices after understanding their own health status.