White Discharge After Plan B (Morning After Pill)

Plan B is a contraceptive pill called “emergency pill,” that brings peace of mind during uncertainty. However, are you slightly puzzled by some unexpected changes happening in your body? For example, you may see a white discharge after taking Plan B. But why does it happen and what can you do about it?

Experiencing white discharge after taking Plan B is a typical thing to happen. Nevertheless, everyone’s body reacts differently. For someone, it’s just like a normal discharge. But, in comparison, it can be alarming for others. During this time, regardless, everyone should maintain good hygiene, wear breathable underwear, and avoid sexual activities. 

This article will reveal the secret behind white discharge, the side effects of taking Plan B, and other facts regarding the issues. Join us! Let’s delve into the topic together. 

White Discharge After Plan B

Plan B is a one-step contraceptive pill. It contains 1.5 mg levonorgestrel. Levonorgestrel is generally a synthetic hormone. That is used to prevent pregnancy. While you are taking this pill, you may notice some hormonal changes. For instance, it affects the menstrual cycle and causes vaginal discharge.

Consequently, you may wonder: can Plan B cause white discharge? Yes, this is possible. White or brown discharge, even pinkish discharge, is common after taking this birth control pill.

Can Plan B Cause Colored Discharge?

It’s too common to have vaginal discharge after taking Plan B, but you should observe the color of it. Sometimes the color may vary and indicate different causes. Here are a few possibilities:

Brown discharge: It’s typical for a woman ever experience brown discharge. It happens mostly due to old blood. When this blood mixes with cervical mucus, the discharge looks brown. It’s considered normal and will resolve in a few days.

Pinkish discharge: pinkish discharge may often be noticed after taking Plan B. Plan B causes hormonal changes that result in light bleeding. Hence, it looks like pinkish or reddish vaginal discharge. There is nothing to worry about.

Can Plan B Cause Abnormal Discharge?

Due to hormonal changes, it’s rare but not impossible for women to go through some unusual experiences. For example, the discharge seems unusual when the color becomes gray, green, or yellow.

Unusual colored discharge may be a sign of an underlying infection. Colored discharge is considered as a symptom of bacterial vaginosis or a sexually transmitted infection. Not only that, the foul odors, itching, burning, or other symptoms give you a very irritating feeling.  

Why Do I Have White Discharge After Taking Plan B?

White discharge is expected even if you are not taking a contraceptive pill. This creamy discharge is also known as leukorrhea. It’s a normal part of the menstrual cycle. In addition, it keeps the vaginal part clean and lubricated.

In the case of taking Plan B, it thickens the cervical fluids. Additionally, prevents sperm from entering the uterus. That’s why the discharge looks creamy and white.

Is It Normal To Have Discharge After Plan B?

It’s normal to have a discharge after taking Plan B. However, due to hormonal changes, you may also notice changes in discharge, such as thick or thinner consistency, excessive discharge than usual, and abnormal color. These changes should be resolved in a few days.

it’s pervasive to think, “How long do you have discharge after Plan B?” It varies from person to person, considering lifestyle, a balanced diet, a healthy marital life, and, most importantly, the menstrual cycle. Some individuals may experience heavy discharge, while others may notice a low discharge. It’s important to remember that vaginal discharge and hormonal changes can vary throughout the menstrual cycle. That occurs through Plan B.  

Does Plan B Make Your Cervical Mucus Thick?

Generally, cervical mucus changes its consistency and amount during ovulation. It tends to be thin, transparent, and stretchy at that time. It helps facilitate sperm movement and fertility as well. 

When you are taking Plan B, a hormonal imbalance occurs. It makes the cervical mucus thick.

What Are The Signs That Plan B Pill Didn’t Work?

After having unprotected sex, taking Plan B sometimes doesn’t work. Then how do you know if Plan B failed? The common thing you may experience followingly are:

• No change in menstrual bleeding.
• Pregnancy test positive.
• Persistent pregnancy symptoms include nausea, fatigue, breast tenderness, and frequent urination. 
• Unprotected intercourse after taking Plan B. Plan B works as a backup for only one episode of intimacy. It doesn’t offer ongoing contraception.

How Do You Know If Plan B Is Working?

Taking Plan B within 72 hours after intercourse is considered more effective. Taking it as soon as possible decreases the chances of pregnancy. However, more symptoms may be seen if it works. These are:

• Your period cycle will be delayed or earlier. But there must be changes that will appear in your period cycle. 
• If you feel worried, try a pregnancy test at home or in the hospital. If Plan B works, your pregnancy test will be negative for sure. 

Does Plan B Permanently Affect Your Hormones?

As we said before, Plan B contains a synthetic hormone, levonorgestrel. It helps prevent pregnancy. After taking the pill, it can affect your hormone level for a short period of time. 

Plan B is a high-dose contraceptive pill that you can’t take frequently. Regular birth control pills or hormonal IUDs work differently. And have a more sustained impact on hormonal balance. On the other hand, pills like Plan B cause temporary changes in hormones.

Plan B Side Effects

Despite beneficial purposes such as preventing unexpected pregnancy, availability, and effectiveness, Plan B has some side effects that you must face. These are followingly

• Nausea and vomiting
• Changes in the menstrual cycle: 
• Fatigue and dizziness: 
• Breast tenderness: 
• Bleeding between periods or heavier menstrual bleeding.
• Lower abdominal pain or cramps

Source: Verywellhealth.com

Treatment Of White Discharge Caused By Plan B.

White discharge after taking Plan B is a common side effect. However, here are a few suggestions we have shared for managing vaginal discharge:

Panty liners: Panty liners can help keep you fresh and comfortable the whole day. In general, it absorbs any excess discharge.

Personal hygiene: Maintaining good personal hygiene is essential. Wash the genital area gently with mild soap and warm water. Avoid using harsh soaps or douches. They can spoil the natural balance of bacteria in the vagina.

Probiotics: Probiotics are beneficial bacteria. It can keep the vagina healthy and clean. They are available in the form of oral supplements and vaginal suppositories. Probiotics may balance bacteria in the vagina and reduce abnormal discharge.

Avoid irritants: Some products, such as scented soaps, feminine sprays, and douches, can irritate the vaginal area. These worsen discharge. It’s best to avoid using these products when you are taking Plan B. It is also a good idea to avoid spicy foods that may upset your stomach.

Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can play a role in keeping vaginal health perfect. Moreover, it keeps the vaginal discharge balanced.

Remember, these may not be suitable for everyone. Henceforth, if you experience any of these symptoms, seek advice from a healthcare professional for a proper evaluation, medications, and guidance. 

Cautions

Here are a few things you should remember while taking a contraceptive pill like Plan B. These are the following.

1. Plan B is not permissible to take more than one menstrual cycle. In addition, it shouldn’t be your primary method of birth control; it’s just meant for emergencies.
2. Plan B doesn’t cause menstruation to start. Afterward, you may experience bleeding a bit early or a bit late. It varies from woman to woman and depends on where she is in her menstrual cycle.
3. A significant amount of hormones are included in Plan B. Therefore, you experience some side effects from taking them within a little gap.
4. Your regular period will turn to irregular periods. It may come early, late, heavier, or lighter than usual.
5. Plan B changes the thickness of your cervical mucus. Unfortunately, it’s also a sign of yeast infection.
6. It’s not eligible for women aged under 17 or women who are premenopausal.
7. It doesn’t protect from any other sexually transmitted diseases or infections such as herpes, HIV (AIDS), gonorrhea, papilloma, or chlamydia.
8. It is not effective for a pregnant woman.
9. It doesn’t terminate an existing pregnancy.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Does Plan B delay your period?

Yes. Plan B causes hormonal changes due to its hormone element, levonorgestrel. It works generally to prevent pregnancy and also alter hormone levels. That results in either a delay or an early period.

Does Plan B affect future fertility?

No. Plan B is a high-dose contraceptive pill. Excessive intake can affect the menstrual period and cause other problems, including headaches and future fertility. But it never affects future fertility until you are taking an excessive dose of it. As it contains a high dose of levonorgestrel, taking only one contraceptive pill in one cycle is recommended.

Can I take Plan B as a regular birth control pill?

No. As it contains high doses of synthetic hormones like levonorgestrel, taking it as a regular pill is not suggested. 

Conclusion 

In sum, having a white discharge after Plan B is normal. Plan B is effective in preventing pregnancy. However, it will not protect you from vaginal infections. Or even sexually transmitted infections. Therefore, it’s best to consult a doctor if you see any abnormalities. Stay happy, stay safe.