Is Emergency Contraceptive Pill Harmful? – A Medical Perspective

Emergency contraceptive pills are one of the commonly recommended and safe contraceptive methods by many healthcare professionals. However, alongside their contraceptive effectiveness, concerns about “is emergency contraceptive pill harmful” are often raised by many women. This article aims to provide specific answers to this question.

 

What is Emergency Contraceptive Pill?

Emergency contraceptive pills are a type of medication designed to prevent either egg fertilization or the meeting of sperm with the egg, thereby preventing unintended pregnancies. These pills are used in emergency situations, such as when regular contraceptive pills are missed, or after engaging in unprotected sexual intercourse.

is emergency contraceptive pill harmful 1

Emergency contraceptive pills are widely used as a common method of contraception

Is Emergency Contraceptive Pill Harmful?

The question of “is emergency contraceptive pill harmful” is a common concern among women. In addition to their effective contraceptive function, emergency contraceptive pills may have some side effects, including:

1. Menstrual irregularities

The most common side effect is changes in menstrual patterns, such as delayed or early periods, or alterations in the amount of menstrual flow.

is emergency contraceptive pill harmful 2

The typical side effect of emergency contraceptive pills is menstrual irregularities

2. Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain

Gastrointestinal-related side effects like nausea and vomiting typically occur within 24 hours after taking the pill.

3. Headaches, dizziness

Nervous system-related side effects may include headaches and dizziness.

4. Increased blood pressure

Some studies have linked the use of emergency contraceptive pills to an increased risk of high blood pressure, especially in individuals with a history of hypertension.

5. Temporary reduction in fertility

Emergency contraceptive pills may temporarily reduce fertility in some individuals.

 

Cases Where Emergency Contraceptive Pills Should Not Be Used

Women falling into the following categories should avoid taking emergency contraceptive pills:

  • Pregnant women: Emergency contraceptive pills do not induce abortion, but they may pose risks to the developing fetus if used during pregnancy.
  • Women with bleeding disorders: The pills may increase the risk of abnormal bleeding in women with bleeding disorders.
  • Women with a history of heart disease: There is an elevated risk of heart-related issues for women with a history of heart disease.
  • Women with a history of breast cancer: The pills may increase the risk of breast cancer recurrence in women with a history of breast cancer.
  • Breastfeeding women: The pills can enter breast milk and potentially harm the newborn.

is emergency contraceptive pill harmful 3

The question “is emergency contraceptive pill harmful?” is a concern for many breastfeeding women.

 

Important Considerations when Using Emergency Contraceptive Pills

To ensure the safe use of emergency contraceptive pills, it is essential to:

  • Take the pills as soon as possible, preferably within 72 hours after sexual intercourse.
  • Avoid exceeding three doses within one menstrual cycle.
  • Take two pills at once, with a 12-hour interval between doses.
  • Take the pills with plenty of water.
  • Limit usage to no more than two doses within one month.

 

In conclusion, this article has addressed the question “is emergency contraceptive pill harmful?” Emergency contraceptive pills are an effective method for urgent contraception, but women should use them cautiously and seek medical advice before usage.

Kiểm Duyệt Nội Dung

Ban Biên Tập | Website

More than 10 years of marketing communications experience in the medical and health field.

Successfully deployed marketing communication activities, content development and social networking channels for hospital partners, clinics, doctors and medical professionals across the country.

More than 6 years of experience in organizing and producing leading prestigious medical programs in Vietnam, in collaboration with Ho Chi Minh City Television (HTV). Typical programs include Nhật Ký Blouse Trắng, Bác Sĩ Nói Gì, Alo Bác Sĩ Nghe, Nhật Ký Hạnh Phúc, Vui Khỏe Cùng Con, Bác Sỹ Mẹ, v.v.

Comprehensive cooperation with hundreds of hospitals and clinics, thousands of doctors and medical experts to join hands in building a medical content and service platform on the Doctor Network application.

Share this post

Categories
Most Viewed Posts
Recent Posts

Related News