Why did I get the brown discharge ten days after taking an I-pill?

Question

Hello doctor,

I have a regular menstrual cycle. I had sexual intercourse on the seventh day of my period, which was around three weeks ago, and took an I-pill (Levonorgestrel) within two hours after intercourse. My next period is expected within the next couple of days. About ten days after taking the pill, I had a light amount of brown, jelly-like discharge that lasted for one to three days. Today, I started bleeding again, similar to my regular period. I would like to know if this is my actual period or breakthrough bleeding. Also, is there still any chance of pregnancy?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Based on the details you provided, the bleeding you experienced approximately ten days after taking Levonorgestrel was likely breakthrough bleeding, not your actual menstrual period. You had unprotected sexual intercourse on the seventh day of your cycle and took Levonorgestrel within two hours, which is within the most effective time window. At that point in your cycle, you were likely not in your fertile period.

Emergency contraceptive pills contain high doses of hormones that can temporarily affect your cycle and may cause side effects such as brown discharge or spotting, usually five to fourteen days after intake. The jelly-like brown discharge you observed roughly ten days later matches this expected hormonal response.

Now that you are bleeding again, about three weeks after taking the pill, close to your expected period, it suggests that the emergency pill worked effectively. This reduces the chance of pregnancy. However, if this bleeding is much lighter or shorter than your usual period, or if you remain unsure, taking a home pregnancy test about three weeks after intercourse can provide confirmation.

I hope you are satisfied with my answer. For further queries, you can consult me at iCliniq.

Thank you.