When you take the morning after pill, the hormone it contains prevents you getting pregnant. It does so by thickening the mucus at the entrance to the womb (so that sperm can’t get to the egg), altering the lining of your womb (so an egg can’t implant) and by preventing ovulation.
It is not unusual for the morning after pill to cause irregular bleeding. You may notice some spotting or unusual bleeding, which may persist until your next period. You don’t need to worry about the bleeding unless it becomes excessive or if it doesn’t stop.
The morning after pill may not only cause irregular spotting and bleeding but it may also have an impact on your next period. Although most women still have their period on time, you may have it several days later or earlier than usual. If your period is more than five days late you should speak to a doctor who will check whether you are pregnant. The same applies if you have a very light or heavy period.
It is safe to take the morning after pill in situations where you need emergency contraception. Both morning after pills were found to be safe in medical trials.
In very rare cases, some patients develop an allergic reaction to the hormone in the morning after pill. If you encounter symptoms of an allergic reaction, see a doctor without delay. Signs of an allergic reaction can include an itchy rash or facial swellings.
The morning after pill can cause side effects but it is very rare for it to cause any serious health problems. However, it is not suitable for regular use and you should avoid using it on a regular basis.
You need to speak to a doctor after taking a morning after pill if: