Can Emergency Contraceptive Pills Prevent Pregnancy After Unprotected Sex?

Can emergency contraceptive pills cause pregnancy?

Your menstrual period started on June 14 and ended on June 18.
You had intercourse on June 20, but took emergency contraception three hours later.
Your boyfriend did not use a condom and did not ejaculate.
You are also taking medication for menstrual regulation and are on Anliting (a type of contraceptive pill).
What effects might this have? The pharmacy provided you with a box of Anliting and also gave you a uterine protector to avoid side effects.
What is the likelihood of pregnancy in this situation?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/06/24

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, taking birth control pills on time provides effective contraception, and the chances of pregnancy are low.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/06/24

More Info

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure, such as a broken condom. They are most effective when taken as soon as possible after the incident, ideally within 72 hours, but some types can be effective up to 5 days later. In your case, since you took the emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) within three hours after unprotected sex, you have taken a significant step to reduce the risk of pregnancy.

Regarding your menstrual cycle, it seems that you had your period on June 14, and then it stopped on June 18. This indicates that you are likely in the early part of your cycle, which is generally considered a less fertile time. However, ovulation can vary from person to person, and it is possible to ovulate earlier or later than expected, which can affect your chances of conception.

You mentioned that you are taking a medication for regulating your menstrual cycle and a contraceptive pill called Anlitin (安立婷). Anlitin is a type of hormonal contraceptive, and when taken consistently, it can help prevent ovulation, thereby reducing the risk of pregnancy. However, if you are taking ECPs in conjunction with your regular contraceptive pills, it is essential to understand how these medications interact. Generally, ECPs can be taken alongside regular contraceptives, but they may cause some hormonal fluctuations that could lead to side effects such as nausea, changes in your menstrual cycle, or breast tenderness.

The "uterine protector" that the pharmacy provided is likely intended to mitigate some of the side effects associated with hormonal changes. It is crucial to follow the instructions provided by your healthcare provider or pharmacist regarding the use of these medications.

As for the likelihood of pregnancy, since you took the ECP shortly after unprotected intercourse and are on a regular contraceptive regimen, the risk of pregnancy is significantly reduced. However, no contraceptive method is 100% effective, and factors such as missed doses of your regular contraceptive or interactions with other medications can influence effectiveness.

If you experience any unusual symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, or if your next period is significantly delayed, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test and consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide further guidance and support based on your specific situation.

In summary, taking emergency contraceptive pills shortly after unprotected sex, combined with your regular contraceptive method, significantly lowers the risk of pregnancy. However, it is essential to monitor your body for any changes and consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns or questions about your medications and their effects on your menstrual cycle and overall health.

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