Can an I-pill be the cause of my vertigo and spotting?

Question

Hello doctor,

I had my last period 35 days ago. Seven days ago, I had unprotected intercourse, and six days ago, I took an I-pill. For the past two days, I have been experiencing spotting and light bleeding.

However, I have been having vertigo for one day. Last month, during the first or second day of my period, I also experienced vertigo, and my physician prescribed Elvert 16 (Betahistine). It subsided after taking one tablet.

This time, however, I have been taking the tablet for one day, but there has not been much improvement. Could this be because of the I-pill?

Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern.

Yes, the spotting or light bleeding is very likely related to the emergency contraceptive I-pill (Levonorgestrel). After taking it, many women experience:

Spotting or light bleeding a few days later.
An earlier or delayed next period.

So, your bleeding can be a normal hormonal effect of the pill. Dizziness can occur after Levonorgestrel emergency contraception, but a severe or persistent spinning sensation is less common.

You also experienced vertigo around your menstrual cycle last month, and Betahistine sometimes takes time to work. It may not provide immediate relief. Mild dizziness for one to three days after emergency contraception can occur.

Stress, dehydration, poor sleep, anxiety, or reduced food intake can also worsen vertigo. You should seek medical care sooner if you have:

Severe spinning sensations accompanied by vomiting.
Vertigo that persists despite taking Betahistine.

If the vertigo remains significant after another 24 to 48 hours or continues to recur around your periods, it would be reasonable to see an ENT (ear, nose, and throat) specialist or physician for further evaluation.

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

Thank you.

Answer 2

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I read your query and understood your concern.

Light spotting or mild bleeding after taking Levonorgestrel is very common. It usually lasts anywhere from one to seven days. Your next menstrual period may also come a few days earlier or later than expected.

Since you took the Levonorgestrel within about 24 hours, it was taken within an effective time window, so the chance of pregnancy is significantly reduced. However, no emergency contraceptive is 100% effective, so pregnancy is still possible, although it is much less likely.

I would suggest you take a home pregnancy test if:

Your next period is delayed by more than one week.
The bleeding is unusually light compared with your normal period.

Regarding the vertigo, it may or may not be directly related to the Levonorgestrel. Hormonal changes can sometimes trigger dizziness in susceptible individuals, especially if similar symptoms have occurred around previous menstrual cycles.

Since your symptoms have already started improving, that is reassuring. Continue to monitor them and seek medical advice if they persist or become more severe.

Kindly consult a doctor if necessary. If the dizziness continues or worsens despite medication, it is best to get examined by a doctor.

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

Thank you.