Patient's question:
I had sexual intercourse with my husband on the 7th day of my menstrual period (when it had already ended) and took emergency contraception that same day. Then, about a week later, I had another period (which I felt was a period) that lasted for 3 days. The last three days were almost over. Is this normal?Doctor's answer:
Under normal circumstances, taking emergency contraception within 72 hours of intercourse is effective. Emergency contraceptives contain high levels of estrogen, and the dosage of one emergency pill is equivalent to that of 8 days of regular short-term oral contraceptives. Excessive dosage can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, menstrual cycle disorders, ovarian suppression, and other phenomena, disrupting normal menstruation and causing endocrine disorders. If taken for a long time, severe cases may result in amenorrhea. This can affect ovulation, thereby impacting fertility. Generally, no more than 3 pills should be taken in a year.