Emergency Contraceptive Use: Risks, Side Effects, and Pregnancy Concerns

Having unprotected intercourse during the fertile window and taking emergency contraception?

On April 17, my period started and ended on the 23rd.
My cycle has been irregular.
On May 1, I believe it was my fertile period, but I had unprotected intercourse with my boyfriend.
He pulled out before ejaculation, but I felt like something might have entered my vagina.
I took the emergency contraceptive pill (Plan B) within an hour after the intercourse.
However, that night I had a fever and vomiting, and I'm unsure if it was due to the flu or a side effect of the emergency contraceptive pill.
On May 2, I took another dose of the emergency contraceptive pill in the afternoon.
On May 3, I noticed a thick white discharge on my stool.
What could that be? What is the likelihood of pregnancy in this situation?

Nìngmíng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/03

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the effectiveness of emergency contraception taken within 72 hours after intercourse is about 97%, but it is not 100%, with a failure rate of approximately 3%.
Additionally, early pregnancy does not always present specific symptoms, and subjective symptoms cannot be used to make a judgment.
It is recommended to check for pregnancy if your period is more than a week late.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Chang

Reply Date: 2016/05/03

More Info

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are a critical option for individuals who have had unprotected intercourse and wish to prevent an unintended pregnancy. The use of ECPs, such as Plan B or Ella, is generally considered safe and effective when taken within a specific timeframe after unprotected sex. However, it is essential to understand the potential risks, side effects, and concerns regarding pregnancy when using these medications.

Risks and Side Effects of Emergency Contraceptives
1. Common Side Effects: After taking ECPs, some individuals may experience side effects such as nausea, vomiting, fatigue, headache, dizziness, breast tenderness, and changes in menstrual bleeding. The nausea and vomiting can sometimes be severe enough to require additional medication to manage these symptoms.

2. Menstrual Changes: ECPs can cause changes in your menstrual cycle. You may experience an earlier or later period than expected, and the flow may be lighter or heavier than usual. This is a common response to the hormonal changes induced by the medication.

3. Pregnancy Concerns: If you take ECPs as directed, the likelihood of becoming pregnant is significantly reduced. However, if you experience symptoms such as unusual abdominal pain, severe headaches, or persistent vomiting after taking ECPs, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider to rule out the possibility of an ectopic pregnancy or other complications.

4. Timing and Effectiveness: The effectiveness of ECPs diminishes the longer you wait to take them after unprotected intercourse. Ideally, they should be taken within 72 hours, but some types can be effective up to 120 hours after intercourse. The sooner you take them, the better the chances of preventing pregnancy.

Your Specific Situation
In your case, you took the emergency contraceptive pill within an hour after unprotected intercourse, which is excellent as it maximizes the chances of preventing pregnancy. The symptoms you experienced, such as fever and vomiting, could be attributed to various factors, including a viral infection like the flu or side effects from the ECP. If you continue to feel unwell, it is advisable to seek medical attention.

The white, thick discharge you noticed during a bowel movement is likely unrelated to the ECP. It could be a normal physiological response or related to other factors, such as hormonal changes or an infection. If you have concerns about this discharge or if it is accompanied by other symptoms like itching or a strong odor, it would be wise to consult a healthcare provider.

Conclusion
In summary, while emergency contraceptive pills are a safe and effective method to prevent unintended pregnancy, they can come with side effects that may mimic other health issues. Given that you took the ECP promptly after unprotected intercourse, the likelihood of pregnancy is low. However, if you have ongoing symptoms or concerns, it is crucial to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and care. Always remember that while ECPs are a reliable option for emergency contraception, they should not be used as a regular form of birth control. Regular contraceptive methods should be discussed with your healthcare provider to find the best option for your needs.

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