Patient's question:
I had sexual intercourse with my husband two weeks ago and forgot to use contraception. So, on the third day, I took the emergency contraceptive Minitrel. However, I was supposed to get my period last week, but it has been delayed by a week and still hasn't arrived. What should I do about the delayed period after taking Minitrel?Doctor's answer:
The levonorgestrel pill is an emergency contraceptive taken by the woman orally. If taken within 72 hours after intercourse, the chances of successful breastfeeding are relatively high, but it doesn't guarantee success for everyone. After taking the pill, if your period is delayed by a week and hasn't arrived, you should be cautious about whether breastfeeding has been successful. You can go to a regular hospital to have blood drawn for an hCG test. If pregnancy is ruled out, there's no need to panic—just wait a bit. Taking emergency contraception can easily lead to irregular periods, such as delayed menstruation or varying cycle lengths.