Emergency Contraception: Effectiveness and Side Effects Explained - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Emergency contraception (EC) is a method used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse or contraceptive failure, such as a broken condom. The effectiveness of emergency contraception depends on several factors, including the timing of administration relative to the sexual encounter and the type of emergency contraceptive used.

There are two main types of emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs): those containing levonorgestrel (Plan B One-Step and its generics) and those containing ulipristal acetate (ella). Levonorgestrel is most effective when taken within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse, while ulipristal can be effective up to 120 hours after. Both methods are significantly more effective the sooner they are taken after the incident.

In your case, since you took the emergency contraceptive pill within one hour of the incident, the likelihood of preventing pregnancy is quite high. Studies suggest that when taken within the recommended time frame, ECPs can reduce the risk of pregnancy by up to 89%. However, it is important to note that no method of contraception is 100% effective, so there is still a small chance of pregnancy.

Regarding side effects, it is common for individuals to experience some side effects after taking emergency contraception. These can include nausea, fatigue, headache, dizziness, and breast tenderness. Breast tenderness or swelling, as you mentioned, can occur as a result of hormonal changes triggered by the emergency contraceptive pill. This symptom may appear a few days to weeks after taking the pill, as your body adjusts to the sudden influx of hormones.
If you experience breast tenderness two weeks after taking the emergency contraceptive, it is likely related to the hormonal changes caused by the medication. However, if the tenderness is severe or accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.
It is also important to note that your menstrual cycle may be affected after taking emergency contraception. You might experience your next period earlier or later than expected, and the flow may be lighter or heavier than usual. If your period is delayed by more than a week beyond when you expect it, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy.

In summary, taking emergency contraception shortly after a contraceptive failure significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy. While side effects such as breast tenderness can occur, they are generally temporary and resolve as your body readjusts. If you have any further concerns about your symptoms or the effectiveness of the emergency contraception, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice and support.