From the Guidelines
Plan B can delay your period and cause spotting, which is likely what you're experiencing, and according to the most recent guidelines 1, light spotting and cramping after taking emergency contraception are common side effects and don't necessarily indicate pregnancy or a problem. If your period is less than a week late, continue waiting as it may start soon. However, if your period is more than a week late, consider taking a pregnancy test for confirmation. Plan B is about 87% effective when taken correctly, so there is still a small chance of pregnancy. Other side effects of Plan B can include nausea, fatigue, headache, and breast tenderness. If you experience severe abdominal pain, very heavy bleeding, or your period doesn't come within 3 weeks of taking Plan B, consult with a healthcare provider to rule out pregnancy or other complications. The management of bleeding irregularities, such as spotting or light bleeding, may involve treatments like nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) or hormonal treatment, as recommended by the U.S. Selected Practice Recommendations for Contraceptive Use, 2024 1. It's essential to explore patient goals and consider underlying health conditions, such as interactions with other medications or sexually transmitted infections, when managing bleeding irregularities 1. In any case, if you are experiencing any concerning symptoms, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for proper evaluation and guidance.
From the FDA Drug Label
You will know levonorgestrel tablet has been effective when you get your next period, which should come at the expected time, or within a week of the expected time. If your period is delayed beyond 1 week, it is possible you may be pregnant some women may have changes in their period, such as a period that is heavier or lighter or a period that is early or late. If your period is more than a week late, you may be pregnant Side effects may include changes in your period, nausea, lower stomach (abdominal) pain, tiredness, headache, dizziness, and breast tenderness
The patient is experiencing cramping and light spotting, which are possible side effects of levonorgestrel tablet 2. However, since the patient's period is late, it is possible that she may be pregnant 2. It is recommended that the patient gets a pregnancy test and follows up with her healthcare professional if her period is delayed beyond 1 week 2.
From the Research
Late Period and Cramping after Taking Plan B
- The provided studies do not directly address the issue of late periods and cramping after taking Plan B.
- However, some studies discuss the effects of levonorgestrel, a key ingredient in Plan B, on menstrual cycles and bleeding patterns 3, 4, 5.
- A study on the effects of ethinyl estradiol and ibuprofen on endometrial bleeding in levonorgestrel subcutaneous implant users found that there was a decrease in spotting but no effect on bleeding with ethinyl estradiol compared to placebo 3.
- Another study assessed the timing, frequency, and use of backup contraception among individuals who had an intrauterine device placed as emergency contraception and reported intercourse within 7 days post-placement, but it does not provide information on menstrual cycles or cramping 4.
- A study on conception rates in women desiring pregnancy after levonorgestrel 52 mg intrauterine system discontinuation found that women have a rapid return of fertility after discontinuation, but it does not address the issue of late periods and cramping 5.
Cramping and Spotting
- Cramping and spotting can be common side effects of hormonal contraceptives, including those containing levonorgestrel 3, 6.
- A study on ibuprofen prophylaxis for levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system insertion found that ibuprofen did not decrease pain at the time of insertion, but it may help with cramping 6.
- However, the provided studies do not specifically address the issue of cramping and spotting after taking Plan B.
Menstrual Cycle Changes
- Hormonal contraceptives, including Plan B, can affect menstrual cycles and cause changes in bleeding patterns 3, 4, 5.
- A study on the effects of levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system placement on pregnancy rates found that pregnancy is unlikely when the system is placed 6-14 days after unprotected intercourse, but it does not provide information on menstrual cycle changes 7.
- The provided studies do not directly address the issue of late periods and cramping after taking Plan B, but they suggest that hormonal contraceptives can affect menstrual cycles and cause changes in bleeding patterns.