Do emergency contraceptive pills cause delayed periods?

Question

Hello doctor,

I took an emergency pill a day after my period, the fourteenth of last month, and I had dark bleeding eight days later. My period for this month was supposed to come on thirteenth day, and I have not received it yet. What could be the problem? I already took a pregnancy test, but it tested negative. Please give your suggestions.

Thank you.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I have read your query and understand your concern.

Suppose your menstrual cycle is normal and of more than fourteen days, then seven days before and five days after menstruation are considered safe periods. So, these days, there is no need for emergency contraceptives. I would suggest not using unnecessary emergency contraceptive pills that may cause hormonal changes in your body and affect the menstrual cycle. As you had intercourse on a safe day so there is almost no chance of getting pregnant, the bleeding you experienced could be ovulation bleeding. Periods might get delayed by one or two weeks because of hormonal changes. So I would suggest waiting for two more weeks after your due date.

Regards.