New Delhi: There may be disturbing news for those women who depend heavily on early-morning pills to avoid pregnancy. Doctors have warned that frequent use of emergency contraceptive pills can disrupt hormonal balance and menstrual cycles, cautioning that the drug is only for unexpected situations and should not be used as a regular method of birth control. Gynecologists say the pill is for emergencies like contraceptive failure or unprotected intercourse, but many women are using it repeatedly within a short period of time.

“Emergency contraception is a very useful tool when an unplanned situation occurs,” said Dr. Aparna.

Sharma, Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, AIIMS. “But when it is used regularly it creates many problems. Compared to regular contraception, it is less effective, so the chances of pregnancy are higher if one relies only on emergency pills.

” Doctors say one of the most common problems reported by women who repeatedly use the pill is disruption of the menstrual cycle. “Emergency pills contain high amounts of hormones. Repeated use can lead to ovulation disturbances and irregular menstrual cycles,” said Dr Sharma.

“These pills are for emergency situations. Repeated or indiscriminate use can impair menstrual health and hormonal balance. ” Doctors say repeated hormonal exposure can interfere with ovulation patterns over time, potentially affecting reproductive health.

Another concern is that emergency pills do not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Barrier methods like condoms are necessary because emergency pills only prevent pregnancy and do not protect against infections, Dr. Sharma said.

Experts say there is no medical limit on how many emergency pills you can take. Should be taken in one month.

However, doctors stress that frequent need for these usually indicates the need for a more reliable contraceptive method.