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Family Planning: A Global Handbook for Providers

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Family Planning

A GLOBAL HANDBOOK FOR PROVIDERS

Helping Users

Managing Any Problems

Problems Reported as Side Effects or Method Failure

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).