Sometimes, one can be taken away by the passions of the moment. In the case you forget to use a condom or other methods of contraception, emergency contraception may be recommended to avoid unwanted pregnancy. How safe is emergency contraception and what should you look out for? Learn more about emergency contraception side effects here.
4 Emergency Contraception Side Effects
1. Change in menstrual cycle
This is one of the common side effects even if you are taking emergency contraception for the first time or have used it many times. The reason is because oral contraceptives contain ingredients that inhibit female sex hormones and prevent ovulation.
Depending on the individual’s condition, the menstrual cycle may come earlier or later than usual. In case your period is one week late, you should consult your doctor and use a pregnancy test or take a blood test to check if you are pregnant!
2. Emergency contraceptive pills may cause abnormal uterine bleeding
Is taking emergency contraception harmful? Many women have experienced bleeding after taking emergency contraceptive pills. This is considered one of major emergency contraception side effects. However, you shouldn’t be too worried. Because most of these cases do not seriously affect health.
There are, however, also some cases wherein there is bleeding of more than two days after taking the birth control pill. At this point, you need to see a doctor for treatment. Abnormal uterine bleeding can also be a warning sign of a more serious health problem.
3. Dizziness and vomiting after taking the emergency contraceptive pill
Is taking birth control pills harmful? According to statistics, up to 50% of women experience nausea after taking emergency contraceptive pills. These particular emergency contraception side effects are quite common and you do not need to worry because they will disappear after 1-2 weeks or sooner.
However, if you experience persistent vomiting, you may need to change your diet. If necessary, go to the hospital for a doctor’s consultation to check your health and determine the exact cause of your nausea.
4. Side effects of the birth control pill: Feeling tired
Emergency contraception may make you tired. This condition usually occurs in people who take emergency contraceptive pills for the first time and usually happens in the morning. However, this only lasts about a day or two. If your tiredness persists, and you feel uncomfortable or cannot lift even light objects, consult your doctor immediately.
In addition, emergency contraceptive pill side effects can also include chest tightness, headache, decreased sex drive, and lower abdominal pain.
Be careful with long-term emergency contraception side effects
Is it okay if I take emergency contraceptive pills every month or take 3 emergency contraceptive pills a month? According to indications, emergency contraceptive pills only apply to healthy people and should not be used more than 2 times in 1 month. Overuse of emergency contraceptive pills may lead to a number of side effects and long-term complications.
How long does the emergency contraceptive pill last? Normally, the pill will work to prevent pregnancy for 72 hours after taking it. Emergency contraception side effects can last longer if you abuse them or your body does not tolerate them.
Long-term side effects may include:
- Weight gain
- Respiratory disorder
- Causes of depression
- Blood pressure disorder
- In less common cases, the hormonal imbalance caused by the emergency contraceptive pill can predispose you to gallbladder problems.
- Some women have also experienced ovarian cysts while taking the drug.
- Ectopic pregnancy: This is a complication, related to emergency surgery. It can be life-threatening if treated late.
In addition, pregnant women should absolutely not take emergency contraceptive pills for any reason. Emergency contraception side effects can be dangerous for pregnancy. Experts also advise people with blood clotting disorders, PCOS ( polycystic ovary syndrome), high blood pressure, and depression to avoid taking emergency contraceptives without the supervision of a physician.
Note when taking emergency contraceptive pills
To limit the side effects of emergency contraception, you should pay attention to the following issues:
- Know the ingredients of the medicine to prevent allergies. Besides, you should also carefully read the instructions for use, the limitations that the drug can bring.
- Adhere to the course and duration of medication. Do not take more than 2 courses in a month and more than 3 times a year
- If you notice that the side effects of the emergency contraceptive pill last too long or you have more unusual symptoms, you need to go to the hospital to check.
The side effects of the birth control pill can affect your life or work for a while. The pill is also only effective in preventing pregnancy within 24 to 72 hours after sex and cannot prevent sexually transmitted infections .
Therefore, contraception by using condoms during sex is considered a safe method, with no side effects and low risks. You can also use VCF contraceptive film to increase the effectiveness of birth control without the need for pills.
Learn more about Contraception here.
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