May or may not be due to the method.

Slight irregular bleeding

• Irregular bleeding due to ECPs will stop without treatment.
• Assure the woman that this is not a sign of illness or pregnancy.

Change in timing of next monthly bleeding or suspected pregnancy

• Monthly bleeding may start earlier or later than expected. This is not a sign of illness or pregnancy.
• If her next monthly bleeding is more than one week later than expected after taking ECPs, assess for pregnancy. There are no known risks to a fetus conceived if ECPs fail to prevent pregnancy (see Question 2).

Back to contents