Is there any harm in taking contraceptive pills once?
Disease description:
Hello doctor, my partner and I recently had intercourse without using any other form of contraception, and afterward I took one dose of emergency contraceptive pill. However, I've heard that contraceptive pills can have side effects, especially emergency contraceptives, which might affect the menstrual cycle or cause other health problems. I would like to know whether taking one dose of contraceptive pill poses any harm to the body?
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Zhang Lu
Emergency contraceptive pills are an effective method of contraception that can be taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex to reduce the risk of pregnancy. Emergency contraceptives may have some short-term effects on the body, but these effects are usually temporary and do not cause long-term health risks.
The main ingredient in emergency contraceptive pills is a high dose of progestin, which may interfere with normal hormone levels, leading to early or delayed menstruation, or even irregular bleeding. These conditions are usually temporary and will return to normal within 1-2 menstrual cycles. Some women may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain after taking emergency contraceptive pills. If vomiting occurs within 2 hours after taking the pill, a repeat dose may be necessary. Additionally, contraceptive pills may interfere with ovulation, leading to reduced ovarian function and potentially causing infertility. These effects do not necessarily occur, and the severity and manifestation may vary among different women.
Emergency contraceptive pills are designed for special circumstances and should not be used as a regular contraceptive method. Frequent use of emergency contraceptive pills may increase the risk of menstrual disorders and may even affect fertility. Therefore, it is recommended to choose safe and conventional contraceptive methods with fewer side effects for future sexual activity, such as oral short-term contraceptive pills or condoms.
