June 13, 2023

Side Effects Of Postinor-2 On Menstruation 

Article fact-checked and approved by Dr. Didi Emokpare
Content provided in partnership with Radiant Health Magazine

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The significant side effects of postinor-2 on the menstrual cycle are changes in the duration of the period, heavier menstrual flow, or an irregular cycle pattern. However, the birth control pill can have other minor effects depending on when and how you take it after sex.  

Menstrual cycle disturbance is one of the most common side effects of birth control pills like Postinor-2. If you had unprotected sex and took Postinor-2 as soon as possible, you may notice some irregularities in your period, such as an early or heavier menstrual flow. Unexpected changes in your period can be scary, but you’re not alone. Many women complain about this too.  

One of the possible reasons behind this change is the usual side effects of emergency contraception. In the rest of this article, you will learn how the use of Postinor-2 can affect your menstruation, the changes to look out for, and when to know it’s time to see the doctor.  

Understanding Postinor-2 and the menstrual cycle 

 As you already know, Postinor-2 is an emergency contraceptive. It is to be used within 72 hours after sex to prevent pregnancy when you didn’t use any form of pregnancy-prevention technique before having sex. Many people call it the ‘morning-after pill.’ 

 While the World Health Organization says Postinor-2 is safe for preventing pregnancy, it’s not meant to be taken regularly.  

 The medication is meant to serve as an emergency for those occasions when you forget to use a condom or are not confident in the efficacy of another form of contraceptive you are using. So if you take the pill, how does it affect your menstrual cycle?  

 A woman’s menstrual cycle generally has a mean interval of 28 days between the two menses.  

 This menstrual cycle regularity study revealed a change in the cycle length (+/- 2 days) and menstrual period duration (+/- 1 day) in women taking emergency contraceptive pills such as Postinor-2. 

 What brought about this change? The hormonal change that the pill initiates to prevent pregnancy

 So the exact effect Postinor-2 will have on your monthly cycle depends on when or at what stage of ovulation the pill is taken. 

Can postinor-2 delay menstruation?

 According to the manufacturers, using Postinor 2 can make your period come earlier or later than usual.  

 While the contraceptive pill will not negatively affect your period, you might have irregular bleeding or spotting until your next period. These symptoms are just the effect of the hormone in the pill on your body. 

 In other words, Postinor-2 is not designed to delay menstruation; its primary function is to prevent ovulation, fertilization, or implantation of a fertilized egg.  

 However, hormonal contraceptives can sometimes affect the menstrual cycle. After taking Postinor-2, you may experience changes in your menstrual pattern, such as alterations in the timing, duration, or intensity of your periods. 

How does Postinor 2 affect the menstruation cycle? 

 If you take the pill once within the first three weeks of your monthly cycle, you might notice that your periods come earlier than expected.  

 On the other hand, if you take the pill during the fourth week of your cycle, your periods may still arrive on time but last longer than usual. 

 If you take the emergency contraceptive pill within two days before or after ovulation, you probably won't experience any significant changes in your menstrual cycle.  

 However, if your periods are delayed for more than a week, taking a pregnancy test to confirm whether the EC pills effectively prevent pregnancy is a good idea. 

 Remember, these observations can help you understand how Postinor 2 might affect your menstrual cycle so that you can make informed decisions about your reproductive health. 

How long do the side effects of Postinor 2 last? 

 The side effects of Postinor 2 can vary from person to person, and the duration of these side effects can also differ. Generally, the side effects are temporary and should subside within a few days to a week.  

 Global health information provider Healthline identifies nausea or vomiting, fatigue, breast tenderness, and irregular menstrual bleeding as possible side effects of using Postinor 2 and other similar emergency contraceptive pills. 

Know when to talk to a doctor.  

 While most side effects of postinor-2 on menstruation are temporary, there are situations where prompt consultation with a healthcare professional is necessary.  

 For instance, if you experience severe or persistent symptoms like heavy bleeding, intense cramps, breast tenderness, or persistent nausea after taking Postinor 2, you can talk to a doctor online now on Outpost Health.

 In addition, since Postinor 2 is not 100% effective, if you suspect pregnancy despite taking the medication, consult your healthcare provider for a pregnancy test and guidance.  

 Also, don't hesitate to consult a certified gynecologist for general concerns or questions about the pills' impact on your health. 

 Key Takeaway 

 Morning-after pills such as Postinor 2 prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex by halting or delaying ovulation.  

It's common for women to experience an abnormal period after taking the Postinor 2 pill. However, the extent of these effects depends on the timing of pill consumption within the menstrual cycle. So, not everyone will experience irregularities. However, it can also influence the duration of your regular menstrual cycle, leading to potential changes. 

Here are some possible changes you might encounter with your next period after taking Postinor-2: 

 It may occur a few days to a week earlier or later than usual. 

 It could be heavier or lighter than your typical flow. 

 The duration of your period may be longer than usual. 

 You might experience more or less pain during your period. 

 These symptoms may cause concern, but your menstrual cycle should return to its regular pattern by following the following process: However, if more than a week passes without your expected period, I recommend you take a pregnancy test to confirm the effectiveness of the Postinor 2 pill. 

 Remember, the morning-after pill is a reliable form of emergency contraception, but it's not intended to replace regular birth control methods.  

 If you have any questions or concerns, consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance. 

FAQs 

What are the effects of Postinor-2 on the womb? 

 Postinor 2 contains levonorgestrel, which can cause temporary changes in the womb's lining, making it less receptive to a fertilized egg. However, these effects are reversible and do not have long-term consequences. 

 What are the side effects of Postinor-2 after a week? 

 After taking Postinor-2, some common side effects that may occur within a week include nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain, fatigue, headache, breast tenderness, changes in menstrual bleeding, and dizziness. These side effects are usually temporary and resolve on their own. 

What is the effect of taking Postinor-2 tablets at once? 

 As directed, taking Postinor-2 tablets at once is the recommended dosage for emergency contraception. It contains a higher dose of levonorgestrel and is designed to be taken as a single dose. Taking both tablets together helps ensure the effectiveness of the medication in preventing pregnancy. 

 What happens if you use too much Postinor 2? 

 Using too much Postinor-2 can increase the risk of experiencing side effects. Taking more than the recommended dosage does not enhance its effectiveness in preventing pregnancy. Still, it may lead to more severe symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, hormonal imbalances, irregular menstrual bleeding, and other temporary hormonal disturbances. For your health's sake, follow the recommended dosage instructions. 

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