Is it normal to experience heavy, prolonged vaginal bleeding shortly after taking a levonorgestrel-based emergency contraceptive pill, and could this indicate a risk of pregnancy or other underlying complications?
Changes in your bleeding pattern are very common after taking levonorgestrel. Because this emergency contraceptive uses a high dose of hormones, it frequently causes temporary changes to your menstrual cycle, including unexpected, heavier, or prolonged bleeding. While this bleeding itself is usually a side effect of the medication rather than a sign of pregnancy, we want to ensure you are safe. If the bleeding is extremely heavy (soaking a pad an hour), accompanied by severe pelvic pain, or continues for more than a few days, please consult a doctor. Taking a pregnancy test in three weeks can also provide peace of mind.