Pregnancy Risk After Unprotected Intercourse and Emergency Contraception

Can I get pregnant while on medication?

I previously asked a question, and if I remember correctly, it was about irregular menstruation.
My last period started on July 30, and on the early morning of August 22, there was unprotected ejaculation (with assistance from my hand).
I took the emergency contraceptive pill at 10 AM on the 22nd.
What is the likelihood of pregnancy? Prior to the 22nd, I had already experienced breast and nipple tenderness (which typically occurs about one to two weeks before my period).
Today is the 27th, and my breasts and nipples are no longer tender.
Can I feel somewhat reassured that the chance of pregnancy is very low? Additionally, I took Ulsafe tab 150mg (Ranitidine, Zantac) about an hour before taking the emergency contraceptive pill; could this interaction affect the effectiveness of the emergency contraceptive?

xuan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/08/27

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Irregular menstruation; the last period started on July 30.
On the early morning of August 22, there was unprotected ejaculation (assisted by hand).
I took emergency contraception at 10 AM on the 22nd.
Prior to the 22nd, my breasts and nipples were already painful (which typically occurs about one to two weeks before my period).
Today is the 27th, and the pain in my breasts and nipples has subsided.
Can I be somewhat reassured that the likelihood of pregnancy is very low? Answer: Yes.
Also, I took Ulsafe tab 150mg (Ranitidine, Zantac) about an hour before taking the emergency contraception; could this interaction affect the efficacy of the emergency contraception? Answer: No, it will not.

Reply Date: 2017/08/27

More Info

When it comes to the risk of pregnancy after unprotected intercourse and the use of emergency contraception, several factors need to be considered. Based on your timeline, you had unprotected intercourse on August 22 and took emergency contraception (the morning-after pill) shortly thereafter. The effectiveness of emergency contraception is highest when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours. However, it can still be effective up to 5 days after the event, though the efficacy decreases over time.

In your case, since you took the emergency contraceptive pill on the morning of August 22, you are within the effective window. Emergency contraceptive pills work primarily by delaying ovulation; if ovulation has already occurred, they may not be effective. Given that you mentioned experiencing breast tenderness prior to taking the pill, it is possible that you were approaching ovulation, which could increase the risk of pregnancy. However, the fact that your breast tenderness subsided shortly after taking the emergency contraception could be a sign that your hormonal levels are stabilizing, which is a positive indication.

Regarding the interaction between the emergency contraceptive pill and the Ulsafe tab (Ranitidine), there is generally no significant interaction that would reduce the effectiveness of the emergency contraception. Ranitidine is an H2 blocker used to reduce stomach acid, and it does not typically interfere with the hormonal mechanisms of emergency contraceptive pills. However, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider regarding potential drug interactions, especially when taking multiple medications.

As for your concern about the likelihood of pregnancy, it is important to remember that no contraceptive method is 100% effective. However, given that you took the emergency contraception promptly and there are no indications of pregnancy at this time, your risk of being pregnant is likely low. If your next menstrual period is delayed by more than a week, it would be prudent to take a pregnancy test to confirm your status.

In summary, while there is always a risk of pregnancy with unprotected intercourse, your prompt use of emergency contraception significantly reduces that risk. If you have further concerns or experience any unusual symptoms, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and guidance. Regular follow-ups and discussions with your healthcare provider can help you better understand your reproductive health and any risks associated with your contraceptive methods.

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