Progestin-only (LNG) Emergency Contraceptive Pills
Training for Pharmacists
Handout #4
Side Effects of ECPs and Their Management
Side Effects of ECPs
Altered vaginal bleeding patterns
Nausea and vomiting
Headache
Abdominal pain
Breast tenderness
Dizziness
Fatigue
Management of ECP Side Effects
Most women who have used ECPs have their next
menstrual period within 7 days of the expected time.
Menstruation has been reported to occur an average of one
day earlier than expected after the use of LNG ECPs. Some
women experience irregular bleeding or spotting after taking
ECPs. These alterations in bleeding patterns are not
dangerous and will resolve without treatment. If there is a
delay in menstruation of more than one week, a pregnancy
test should be performed.
Nausea, rarely accompanied by vomiting, occurs in less than
20% of women using the LNG regimen. These symptoms
are uncommon enough that the prophylactic administration
of an antiemetic drug is not routinely warranted before ECP
use. If vomiting occurs within 2-3 hours after taking an ECP
dose, some experts recommend that the dose should be
repeated. In cases of severe vomiting, the repeat dose of the
pills may be administered vaginally.
Headaches are rare. Usually does not occur more than a few
days after treatment and generally resolves within 24 hours.
Aspirin or another non-prescription pain reliever can be
used to reduce the discomfort.
Abdominal pain is rare. Usually does not occur more than a
few days after treatment and generally resolves within 24
hours. Aspirin or another non-prescription pain reliever can
be used to reduce the discomfort.
Breast tenderness is rare. Usually does not occur more than
a few days after treatment and generally resolves within 24
hours. Aspirin or another non-prescription pain reliever can
be used to reduce the discomfort.
Dizziness is rare. Usually does not occur more than a few
days after treatment and generally resolves within 24 hours.
Fatigue is rare. Usually does not occur more than a few days
after treatment and generally resolves within 24 hours.
Training Resource Package for Family Planning