Risky sexual behavior
There were no issues before engaging in sexual intercourse during the fertile period, but I still feel anxious.
I took emergency contraception on April 17, and then had sexual intercourse during the fertile period on April 23.
Can I take the emergency contraception again on April 24? Will it have any effects on my body?
123, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/04/24
Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
For such issues, it is recommended to refer to the National Health Service's "Sexual Wellness e-Learning" or the Obstetrics and Gynecology Society's "Consultation Guide for Adolescent Contraception" at http://goo.gl/dc6PfW.
If you are concerned, you may need to take it again, but this is considered an inappropriate practice that can affect your health.
It is advised to use regular contraceptive pills or condoms for contraception.
Reply Date: 2016/04/24
More Info
Emergency contraception (EC) is a crucial option for individuals who have had unprotected intercourse during their fertile window, often referred to as the "unsafe period." This period typically encompasses the days leading up to and including ovulation, when the chances of conception are highest. Understanding the risks and guidelines surrounding the use of emergency contraception is essential for making informed decisions about reproductive health.
In your case, you mentioned taking emergency contraception on April 17 and then having unprotected intercourse again on April 23, during your unsafe period. You are considering taking another dose of emergency contraception on April 24. It is important to note that emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are designed to be taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours, but some types can be effective up to 120 hours after intercourse.
There are two main types of emergency contraceptive pills:
1. Levonorgestrel (Plan B One-Step and generics): This is most effective when taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse. It is less effective as time passes and is not recommended for use more than 72 hours after the event.
2. Ulipristal Acetate (Ella): This can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected intercourse and is generally more effective than levonorgestrel, especially closer to the time of ovulation.
If you are considering taking another dose of emergency contraception on April 24, it is essential to know that while taking multiple doses of levonorgestrel is not recommended, ulipristal acetate can be taken again if it is within the 120-hour window. However, taking multiple doses of emergency contraception in a short period can lead to side effects such as nausea, fatigue, and changes in your menstrual cycle.
Regarding the impact on your body, emergency contraception is generally safe for most individuals. However, frequent use is not advised as a regular contraceptive method. It is intended for occasional use and should not replace regular contraceptive methods, such as birth control pills, IUDs, or condoms.
If you find yourself needing emergency contraception frequently, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider about more reliable long-term contraceptive options. They can help you find a method that suits your lifestyle and health needs, reducing the anxiety associated with unprotected intercourse.
In summary, if you are considering taking emergency contraception again, ensure you are aware of the type you are using and the time frame for its effectiveness. If you are using ulipristal acetate and it is within the 120-hour window, it is appropriate to take it again. However, if you are using levonorgestrel, it is not recommended to take it again so soon. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and to discuss any concerns regarding your reproductive health.
Similar Q&A
Understanding Emergency Contraception: Safety and Side Effects After Menstruation
My girlfriend's period ended on December 6th, and we had sexual intercourse on December 9th. We used a condom, but later discovered that it had broken. We took the emergency contraceptive pill levonorgestrel within 3 hours after the incident. Is the third day after the incid...
Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Similar questions have been asked frequently. Dear inquirer: There is a possibility of pregnancy even if ejaculation does not occur during intercourse, as pre-ejaculatory fluid may contain sperm. Additionally, the effectiveness of emergency contraception is not 100%, with a failu...[Read More] Understanding Emergency Contraception: Safety and Side Effects After Menstruation
Understanding Contraception: Safety of Emergency Pills and Birth Control
Hello, doctor. I would like to ask: 1. If I want to use contraception, is taking preemptive contraceptive pills less harmful to the body? 2. If I take emergency contraceptive pills once a month, will it have negative effects on my health?
Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the general oral contraceptive pills should be taken within the first 1 to 5 days of the menstrual cycle and need to be taken daily, as each pill is effective for 36 hours. Emergency contraceptive pills can provide protection against pregnancy from a single act of intercou...[Read More] Understanding Contraception: Safety of Emergency Pills and Birth Control
Calculating Safe and Risky Days After Irregular Menstrual Cycles
Your girlfriend took emergency contraceptive pills in early July, which caused her menstrual period to come early (normally at the end of the month). In mid-August, her period arrived and lasted until August 22. Due to unprotected sexual intercourse during the days following her ...
Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, inquirer: Emergency contraceptive pills may cause temporary irregularities in the menstrual cycle, typically lasting only 1-2 months. Continuous use generally does not lead to adverse effects. It is important to note that after experiencing irregular cycles, the fertile wi...[Read More] Calculating Safe and Risky Days After Irregular Menstrual Cycles
Understanding Ovulation Risk and Emergency Contraception Effectiveness
The danger period was on October 25th. Approximately 11 hours later, I took the emergency contraceptive pill. I experienced bleeding for three days starting on October 30th. On November 2nd, 3rd, and 4th, there was ejaculation inside. I would like to know if the chances of pregna...
Dr. Huang Zifei reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Dear Sir/Madam, Emergency contraception is typically recommended to be used within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. However, if ejaculation occurs on the 2nd, 3rd, or 4th of November, it will not be covered by this method. If your period is delayed by a week, it is import...[Read More] Understanding Ovulation Risk and Emergency Contraception Effectiveness
Related FAQ
(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Safe Period(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Contraception(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Abortion Pill(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Medication To Induce Menstruation(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Menstrual Regulation(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Medication To Delay Menstruation(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
High-Risk Pregnancy(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Ovulation Medication(Obstetrics and Gynecology)
Bleeding(Obstetrics and Gynecology)