Often referred to as the "morning after pill," the emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) can be used up to five days after unprotected sex. The ECP is essentially a high-dose birth control pill. However, because the hormones don't stay in your body for long, side effects are generally mild. And it's safe for all women, including those who might not be good candidates for regular oral contraceptives.
Nausea and vomiting
Feeling sick to your stomach is the most common side effect of emergency contraception. According to Planned Parenthood, about one out of four women feel nauseous or vomit after taking Plan B One-Step or Next Choice, the two formulations of ECP that are currently available over the counter in the United States. Taking an anti-nausea medication such as Dramamine can help stave off an upset stomach. Doctors also advise taking the medication with food.
Breast tenderness
Some women experience breast tenderness when they take the ECP, although this is a much less common side effect than nausea. The pain is similar to the tenderness some women experience during their menstrual period and usually subsides within a day or two.
Irregular bleeding
Because they have a hormonal component, emergency contraceptives might cause some irregular bleeding or disruption of the menstrual cycle. Sometimes women experience a longer or shorter period than usual after taking Plan B. This is a temporary side effect, and menstrual cycles usually return to normal the next month.
Dizziness and headaches
Emergency contraceptive pills are "progestin-only pills," meaning that they don't contain any estrogen. This is because research shows that progestin-only pills are much less likely to cause side effects. However, some women might experience dizziness or headaches when they take emergency contraception, which usually resolves within 24 hours. If you experience an ongoing migraine headache or dizziness that lingers, contact your physician.
Effects on Pregnancy
Although no studies have been done on pregnant women who have taken the ECP, experts believe that emergency contraception does not have any negative effects on the developing fetus or the woman. Studies have shown that women who have taken high-dose oral contraceptive pills without knowing they were pregnant had no higher risk of giving birth to a child with birth defects.
Breastfeeding women
Experts think that emergency contraception is safe for breastfeeding mothers. However, one study suggested that breastfeeding women who do take the ECP should not nurse for at least eight hours after taking the pill.
Member Comments