The Handy Morning After Pill Side Effect: Be Fully Prepared for These 7 Possible Side Effects

Did you just Google ‘morning after pill side effect’ and are wondering about what side effects you might experience if you take the morning after pill? If so, you are in the right place. Let’s get right to it!

The morning after pill is a form of emergency contraception that can be taken to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or a contraceptive failure.

The pill contains high doses of hormones that work to delay ovulation or prevent fertilization of an egg. While the morning after pill is an effective method of emergency contraception, like all medications, it comes with potential side effects.

In this blog post, I will explore the most common side effects of the morning after pill and what you can expect if you choose to take it.

Morning After Pill Side Effect #1: Nausea and Vomiting

Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of the morning after pill. Studies have shown that up to 50% of women who take the pill experience these symptoms.

These side effects are typically mild and subside within a day or two.

However, if you vomit within two hours of taking the pill, you may need to take another dose, as the first one may not have been fully absorbed.

Morning After Pill Side Effect #2: Irregular Periods

The morning after pill can also cause changes to your menstrual cycle. You may experience spotting, lighter or heavier bleeding, or a delay in your period.

These changes are typically short-lived and should not have any long-term effects on your menstrual cycle. However, if you experience a significant delay in your period, it is recommended that you take a pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy.

3. Breast Tenderness

Breast tenderness is another common side effect of the morning after pill. This may be due to the high levels of hormones in the pill, which can cause changes in breast tissue.

Breast tenderness usually resolves within a few days, but if it persists or becomes severe, you should consult your healthcare provider.

4. Headaches

Headaches are a common side effect of the morning after pill, and they can range from mild to severe. These headaches are typically caused by the hormonal changes in your body and should subside within a few days.

Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help to alleviate these symptoms.

5. Fatigue

Fatigue is another common side effect of the morning after pill. This may be due to the hormonal changes in your body or the stress of the situation. Fatigue typically resolves within a few days, but if it persists or becomes severe, you should consult your healthcare provider.

6. Mood Changes

The high levels of hormones in the morning after pill can also cause mood changes. Some women may experience irritability, anxiety, or depression after taking the pill.

These symptoms are typically mild and should subside within a few days. If you experience severe mood changes or symptoms that persist, you should consult your healthcare provider.

7. Allergic Reactions

While rare, some women may experience an allergic reaction to the morning after pill. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.

If you experience any of these symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.

In conclusion, the morning after pill is an effective form of emergency contraception that can help to prevent unwanted pregnancy.

Photo Credits: Healthline, Quick and Dirty Tips

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