Emergency Contraception: Effectiveness and Side Effects Explained

Emergency contraceptive pill

Hello doctor, I had sexual intercourse with my girlfriend on the early morning of August 8th.
After ejaculation, I noticed that the condom had slipped off and was left at the entrance of her vagina, but I was able to remove it immediately.
The condom did not break, but I still feel quite anxious and am unsure about the possibility of pregnancy.
It has now been more than 24 hours; if I take emergency contraception, is it still effective? Also, are there any serious side effects or long-term consequences associated with taking emergency contraception?

Andy Wu, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/09

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, emergency contraceptive pills should be taken within 48 hours.
Generally, they do not have serious side effects or long-term consequences, although they may cause irregular menstruation.
It is best to use preventive measures beforehand.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/08/09

More Info

Emergency contraception (EC) is a crucial option for individuals who have had unprotected intercourse or experienced contraceptive failure, such as a broken or slipped condom. In your case, since the incident occurred on August 8 and you are considering taking emergency contraception after more than 24 hours, it is essential to understand the effectiveness, timing, and potential side effects associated with these medications.

Effectiveness of Emergency Contraception:
Emergency contraception pills (ECPs), such as levonorgestrel (Plan B One-Step) and ulipristal acetate (Ella), are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. The effectiveness of these pills is time-sensitive. Levonorgestrel is most effective when taken within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected intercourse, while ulipristal acetate can be effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after the event. However, the sooner you take the pill, the more effective it will be. Since you mentioned that it has been over 24 hours since the incident, you still have time to take either option, but the effectiveness will decrease the longer you wait.

If you take levonorgestrel after 72 hours, its effectiveness significantly diminishes, while ulipristal acetate remains a viable option up to 120 hours. If you are beyond this window, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for further guidance.

Potential Side Effects:
Emergency contraception is generally safe, but like any medication, it can have side effects. Common side effects include:
1. Nausea and Vomiting: Some individuals may experience nausea, and in some cases, vomiting. If vomiting occurs within two hours of taking the pill, it may be necessary to take another dose.

2. Fatigue: Some users report feeling tired after taking the medication.

3. Headaches: Hormonal changes can lead to headaches in some individuals.

4. Menstrual Changes: You may experience changes in your menstrual cycle, such as heavier or lighter bleeding, or your period may come earlier or later than expected.

5. Breast Tenderness: Hormonal fluctuations can cause breast tenderness.

6. Dizziness: Some individuals may feel dizzy after taking the medication.

While these side effects can be uncomfortable, they are typically short-lived. Serious side effects are rare, but if you experience severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, or any other concerning symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention promptly.

Long-term Considerations:
Emergency contraception does not have long-term effects on fertility or future pregnancies. It is a safe option for preventing pregnancy after unprotected intercourse, but it should not be used as a regular form of contraception. Regular contraceptive methods, such as birth control pills, IUDs, or condoms, are more effective for ongoing prevention of pregnancy.

In conclusion, if you are considering taking emergency contraception, it is best to do so as soon as possible. Be aware of the potential side effects, and remember that while EC is effective, it is not 100% guaranteed to prevent pregnancy. If you have any further concerns or questions, consulting with a healthcare provider can provide personalized advice and support.

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I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that.

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