Can Taking Emergency Contraceptive Two Days Before Ovulation Prevent Pregnancy?

Taking contraceptive pills two days before ovulation may not effectively prevent pregnancy. It is important to follow the prescribed regimen of contraceptive pills and consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice on contraception and fertility?

I would like to ask the doctor, if I had unprotected intercourse two days before ovulation but did not ejaculate, and took emergency contraception (1.5 mg of Levonorgestrel) one hour later, what is the likelihood of becoming pregnant? My expected menstrual period is on July 12.
Typically, how long after taking emergency contraception can I expect to experience bleeding?

xuesheng, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/07/04

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
Engaging in unprotected intercourse two days before ovulation without ejaculation, and then taking the emergency contraceptive pill (1.5 mg of Levonorgestrel) one hour later, results in a low probability of pregnancy.

2.
If the expected menstrual period is on July 12, the timing of bleeding after taking the emergency contraceptive pill can vary and is not guaranteed.

Reply Date: 2017/07/04

More Info

Taking emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) like Plan B (Levonorgestrel) or Ella (Ulipristal Acetate) can significantly reduce the risk of pregnancy when taken after unprotected intercourse. However, the effectiveness of these pills can vary based on the timing of administration in relation to the ovulation cycle.

In your case, you mentioned having unprotected intercourse two days before ovulation and then taking the emergency contraceptive pill (1.5 mg of Levonorgestrel) one hour after the intercourse. This timing is crucial because ECPs are most effective when taken before ovulation occurs. If ovulation has already taken place, the chances of the emergency contraceptive being effective decrease significantly.

Research indicates that ECPs can reduce the risk of pregnancy by up to 89% when taken within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. However, their effectiveness diminishes as the time from intercourse to taking the pill increases, especially if ovulation is imminent or has already occurred. Since you are two days away from ovulation, the likelihood of the ECP preventing pregnancy is lower than if you had taken it earlier in your cycle, particularly before the fertile window.

Regarding your question about the timing of your expected menstrual period, after taking an emergency contraceptive, it is common for women to experience changes in their menstrual cycle. Some may have their period earlier, while others may experience a delay. Generally, you can expect to see bleeding within a week or so after taking the ECP, but this can vary. If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test to confirm whether or not you are pregnant.

In summary, while taking the emergency contraceptive pill after unprotected intercourse can reduce the risk of pregnancy, its effectiveness is contingent upon the timing of ovulation. Since you had intercourse two days before ovulation, there is a possibility that the ECP may not be fully effective. Monitoring your menstrual cycle after taking the pill is essential, and if you have any concerns or if your period is significantly delayed, consulting with a healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance is recommended.

Similar Q&A

Can Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills on Ovulation Day Prevent Pregnancy?

Hello Doctor, I had intercourse with my girlfriend on October 9th using a condom. I found out afterward that today is her ovulation day. I did not pull out immediately after ejaculation, but I did pull out after the condom was no longer firm. I checked the condom afterward and fo...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
If you are concerned, you may consider taking emergency contraception. Generally, emergency contraception should be taken within 48 hours. It is best to use preventive measures beforehand. If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to see a gynecologist. Wishing you...

Understanding Preemptive Birth Control Pills and Ovulation Risks

Taking emergency contraception does not prevent ovulation if ovulation has already occurred. If you take the pill before ovulation, it can delay or inhibit ovulation. However, if ovulation has already taken place, the emergency contraceptive will not be effective in preventing pr...

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. Will there still be an ovulation day after taking emergency contraception? Ans: No, there will be no ovulation day. 2. Is there a possibility of pregnancy if intercourse is performed without time limits and with ejaculation inside? Ans: There will be no pregnancy.

Understanding Emergency Contraception: Can It Prevent Pregnancy After Ovulation?

I had intimate contact with my girlfriend the day before her ovulation, but the condom broke before ejaculation. When we went to see a doctor, an ultrasound was performed, and it was indicated that there might be an egg that could be released in 2 to 3 days. Is it still possible ...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, at this time, the only option is to take emergency contraception to prevent the implantation of a fertilized egg. This is a remedial measure. Wishing you good health.

Emergency Contraception on Ovulation Day: Pregnancy Risk Explained

Having sexual intercourse on the day of ovulation, even without ejaculation but with a condom slipping off, and taking Ella (ulipristal acetate) emergency contraception immediately afterward, can significantly reduce the risk of pregnancy. However, the effectiveness of emergency ...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, you should never rely on the safe period for contraception. The effectiveness of emergency contraceptive pills is about 90%, so the chance of pregnancy is low. It's best to use preventive measures beforehand. If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to...