Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills?

Can you get pregnant after taking emergency contraception?

Your menstrual period started on March 5 and ended on March 8.
You had unprotected intercourse during your fertile window on March 16, and experienced some discomfort in your chest and abdomen on the way home.
The next evening, around 7 PM on March 17, you took one emergency contraceptive pill, and your ovulation day is on March 18.

There is still a possibility of pregnancy since you had intercourse during your fertile window.
It is generally recommended to take a second dose of the emergency contraceptive pill if the specific product you used requires it, or if you are unsure about the timing of ovulation and the effectiveness of the first dose.
For pregnancy testing, it is advisable to wait at least one week after the expected date of your next period or about two weeks after the date of unprotected intercourse for the most accurate results.

Xiao Qian, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/03/20

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Menstruation started on March 5 and ended on March 8.
On March 16 (high fertility period), after having sexual intercourse, I felt a dull pain in my chest and abdomen on the way back.
The next day, on March 17 around 7 PM, I took one emergency contraceptive pill, and my ovulation day is on March 18.
Is there still a chance of pregnancy?
Answer: The chance of pregnancy is 20%.

2.
Should I take a second emergency contraceptive pill?
Answer: Taking a second emergency contraceptive pill will still result in a 20% chance of pregnancy.

3.
When is it recommended to use a pregnancy test?
Answer: April 10.

What you need is not medical advice but a refresher on sexual knowledge.
For such questions, it is recommended to refer to the National Health Administration's "Sexual Happiness e-Learning" or the Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology's "Adolescent Contraceptive Guidance" at http://goo.gl/dc6PfW.

Reply Date: 2017/03/20

More Info

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), commonly referred to as the "morning-after pill," are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. They are most effective when taken as soon as possible after the event, ideally within 72 hours, but some formulations can be effective up to 120 hours post-intercourse.
In your case, you had unprotected intercourse on March 16, which is close to your estimated ovulation date of March 18. Taking the emergency contraceptive pill on March 17 was a prudent decision, as it can help prevent ovulation from occurring. If ovulation has not yet taken place, the ECP can effectively inhibit the release of an egg, thereby reducing the chance of fertilization.
Regarding your question about whether you can still get pregnant after taking the ECP, the answer is that while the pill significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy, it is not 100% effective. The effectiveness of ECPs decreases the closer you get to ovulation. If you took the pill within 24 hours of unprotected intercourse, your chances of preventing pregnancy are relatively high. However, if ovulation occurs shortly after taking the pill, there is still a possibility of pregnancy.

As for whether you should take a second dose of the emergency contraceptive pill, it depends on the specific type of ECP you took. Some ECPs are designed to be taken as a single dose, while others may require two doses taken 12 hours apart. It is crucial to follow the instructions provided with the medication or consult with a healthcare provider for guidance.

In terms of pregnancy testing, it is generally recommended to wait at least one week after the expected date of your next period to take a home pregnancy test for the most accurate results. Since your menstrual cycle appears to be regular, if your period does not arrive around the expected time, you should take a pregnancy test. If you experience any unusual symptoms or have concerns, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional.

In summary, while taking the emergency contraceptive pill significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy, it is not foolproof, especially if taken close to ovulation. Following the instructions for the specific ECP you took is essential, and waiting until after your expected period for a pregnancy test will provide the most reliable results. If you have any further concerns or questions, reaching out to a healthcare provider can provide personalized advice and support.

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