Will taking too much emergency contraception lead to infertility?

Written by Luo Chun Yan

Obstetrics and Gynecology

Updated on March 30, 2025

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Taking emergency contraceptive pills excessively may lead to infertility. Emergency contraceptives contain highly effective hormonal ingredients, mainly working by altering the viscosity of cervical mucus and affecting the implantation of fertilized eggs. Emergency contraceptive pills can cause menstrual irregularities and disorders, leading to irregular vaginal bleeding. Some may also affect ovulation and the motility of the fallopian tubes, while also causing symptoms such as breast tenderness, nausea, and vomiting. Excessive use of emergency contraceptive pills can significantly affect the endocrine system, potentially leading to infertility and, in some cases, ectopic pregnancy. Therefore, emergency contraceptives should not be used as a regular method of contraception.

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Written by Zhang Lu

Obstetrics

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Why does a chocolate cyst cause infertility?

Chocolate cysts, also known as ovarian endometriomas, are a manifestation of endometriosis. Generally, it refers to the implantation of endometrial tissue on the ovaries, causing local infiltration and invasion, leading to cysts. Because the fluid inside the cyst resembles chocolate, they are called chocolate cysts. Chocolate cysts may cause infertility, for the following reasons: First, chocolate cysts can affect the function of the ovaries, causing ovulatory disorders and ovarian dysfunction. The secretion of estrogen and progesterone is relatively low, and these factors can lead to infertility. Second, chocolate cysts can cause adhesions within the pelvic cavity, affecting the egg-picking function of the fallopian tubes. This factor can also lead to female infertility.

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Written by Li Li Jie

Obstetrics and Gynecology

53sec

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Can a ruptured corpus luteum lead to infertility?

The destruction of corpus luteum cells can lead to infertility. The most common issue is the obvious rupture of the corpus luteum, accompanied by excessive pelvic fluid, which requires surgical treatment. Post-surgery, there could be pelvic adhesion, leading to partial fallopian tube adhesion, which may result in blockages or obstructions in the fallopian tubes. Therefore, during pregnancy, an ectopic pregnancy may occur, and even infertility, particularly in some women who do not seek timely medical treatment after a corpus luteum rupture. This leads to the spread of pelvic inflammatory disease, which may even develop into chronic pelvic inflammatory disease. It is essential to be cautious and avoid vigorous physical activities to prevent the dangerous rupture of the corpus luteum.

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Written by Zhang Lu

Obstetrics

56sec

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Can acute salpingitis cause infertility?

If there is inflammation in the fallopian tubes, it can potentially lead to infertility. Inflammation causes the fallopian tubes to thicken, affecting their function. Firstly, the function of the fimbrial end of the fallopian tube is impacted, which affects the tube's ability to capture eggs. Secondly, the inflammation can affect the union of sperm and egg within the fallopian tube, making fertilization difficult. Moreover, inflammation of the fallopian tubes can also increase the likelihood of an ectopic pregnancy. This happens because when the fallopian tubes are inflamed, their ability to transport the fertilized egg to the uterus is impaired, leading to ectopic pregnancies. Therefore, it is crucial for women with fallopian tube inflammation to undergo adequate anti-inflammatory treatment before trying to conceive. Commonly used medications include cephalosporins and penicillin.

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Written by Zhao Min Ying

Reproductive Medicine

54sec

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How is infertility defined?

If a couple is under 35 years old, cohabiting, having regular sexual intercourse, and has not used any contraception for over a year, the woman is diagnosed with infertility and the man with male infertility. For couples over 35 years old, cohabiting, having regular sexual intercourse, and not using any contraception for over half a year, the woman is diagnosed with infertility. After a diagnosis of infertility or sterility, it is necessary to visit a local reproductive center for further infertility-related examinations, including semen analysis for the man, ovulation monitoring for the woman, endocrine tests, and fallopian tube examinations, among others.

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Written by Kang Jian Hua

Reproductive Center

1min 32sec

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What should an infertile man check?

The definitive diagnosis of male infertility requires determination based on professional examination procedures. Common examinations include the following: First, it is crucial to conduct a medical history interview. The patient should actively cooperate and honestly report their conditions, such as whether they have had mumps, any unsafe sexual behaviors, and what their occupation is. Second, a physical examination, including a general body and reproductive organ examination, is necessary. Special attention should be given to the patient's developmental, nutritional, and mental status, with a focus on the development of the reproductive organs. Third, laboratory tests. The most common is semen analysis. Other tests may be selected based on specific conditions, such as X-ray examinations to determine the location of any blockage in the vas deferens. Techniques such as vasography, epididymography, vas deferens and seminal vesicle radiography, or urethrography can be used. Testicular exams are also performed to assess the condition of the testicles. Additionally, immunological tests, including sperm agglutination and immobilization tests, are used to detect sperm agglutination antibodies or immobilization antibodies in serum or seminal plasma, which help assess the immune status.