Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Effectiveness and Pregnancy Concerns

Emergency contraceptive pills and issues related to pregnancy?

I had ejaculation inside on May 26 and took the emergency contraceptive pill on May 30, which is less than 96 hours later.
Is it still effective? If not, are there any examples of successful contraception when the pill is taken on the fourth day? Additionally, does age increase the likelihood of pregnancy?

Ms. Chen, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/05/30

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

What you need is not medical consultation but rather a refresher on sexual health knowledge.
For such inquiries, it is recommended to refer to the National Health Administration's "Sexual Health e-Learning" or the Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology's "Consultation Guide for Adolescent Contraception" at http://goo.gl/dc6PfW.

Hello, the effectiveness of emergency contraception taken within three days is approximately 97%.
The effectiveness decreases over time, and studies in Canada indicate that the effectiveness is around 90% when taken between three to five days.
There is currently no data on the effectiveness beyond that timeframe, and human trials cannot be conducted.
Conception can be influenced by many factors, with age being just one of them.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health, Dr.
Zhang.

Reply Date: 2017/05/30

More Info

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are a crucial option for preventing unintended pregnancies after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. The effectiveness of ECPs, such as Plan B (levonorgestrel) and Ella (ulipristal acetate), depends on several factors, including the timing of administration relative to ovulation.

In your case, since you had unprotected intercourse on May 26 and took the emergency contraceptive pill on May 30, you are within the recommended time frame for taking ECPs. Levonorgestrel is most effective when taken within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex, while ulipristal acetate can be effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after. Given that you took the pill within 96 hours, it should still be effective, especially if you are using ulipristal acetate.

While there are anecdotal reports of successful prevention of pregnancy even when ECPs are taken later than the recommended time frame, the effectiveness decreases significantly the longer you wait. Studies show that ECPs can reduce the risk of pregnancy by 75-89% when taken within the appropriate time frame. However, no contraceptive method is 100% effective, and there is always a small chance of pregnancy.

Regarding your question about age and its impact on pregnancy likelihood, age can indeed play a significant role in fertility. Women are generally most fertile in their 20s, with fertility beginning to decline in the late 20s and more significantly after the age of 35. As women age, the quantity and quality of their eggs decrease, which can lead to a higher risk of infertility and complications during pregnancy. Therefore, if you are in your late 30s or older, the likelihood of conceiving naturally may be lower compared to younger women.

In summary, taking the emergency contraceptive pill within 96 hours after unprotected intercourse is likely to be effective, especially if you used ulipristal acetate. While there are cases of successful prevention of pregnancy even after the recommended time frame, the chances decrease significantly. Additionally, age does affect fertility, with younger women generally having a higher likelihood of conceiving. If you have further concerns about your reproductive health or the effectiveness of emergency contraception, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized guidance and support.

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