Can I Get Pregnant After Using Emergency Contraception?

Can I get pregnant?

Hello, my menstrual cycle is approximately 33 days.
I started tracking my cycle only in the last three months, and from June to August, it has been consistently 33 days.
My period started on August 28, and on September 16, I had genital friction with my boyfriend.
There was no penetration and no ejaculation, only friction at the vaginal opening.
However, I'm unsure if my boyfriend released pre-ejaculate fluid.
The next day, on September 17, I bought and took the emergency contraceptive pill (Lillian tablet) within 24 hours.
After taking it, I didn't experience any significant side effects.
Is it likely that the contraception was successful?
In the two days following the pill, I experienced some mild pain in my lower left abdomen, which lasted briefly, and on September 19, I had a slight headache.
Are these symptoms side effects of the emergency contraceptive pill, or could they be signs of pregnancy? I calculated my ovulation period to be on September 15, and since my contact with my boyfriend was on September 16, which is one day after ovulation, could I still become pregnant despite taking the emergency contraceptive pill?

Niming, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/09/20

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the chances of getting pregnant are low, but it is always best to take preventive measures beforehand.
Do not rely on the safe period.
If your period is late by more than a week, it is advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2017/09/20

More Info

When it comes to the question of whether you can get pregnant after using emergency contraception, it's important to understand how these medications work and their effectiveness. Emergency contraception (EC), such as the pill you mentioned (Lillian), is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. It is most effective when taken as soon as possible after the incident, ideally within 72 hours, but some types can be taken up to 5 days later.

In your case, since you took the emergency contraception within 24 hours after the incident, you significantly reduced your chances of becoming pregnant. The mechanism of action for most emergency contraceptive pills primarily involves delaying or inhibiting ovulation. If ovulation has already occurred, EC may not be effective. However, since you mentioned that the intercourse occurred on September 16 and your calculated ovulation was around September 15, it is likely that you were just past your ovulation window, which further decreases the likelihood of pregnancy.

Regarding the symptoms you experienced after taking the emergency contraception—such as mild abdominal pain and headaches—these can be common side effects of EC. They do not necessarily indicate pregnancy. Many women experience side effects like nausea, fatigue, headache, or changes in their menstrual cycle after taking EC. The abdominal pain you felt could be due to hormonal changes caused by the medication rather than an indication of pregnancy.

It's also worth noting that while emergency contraception is effective, it is not 100% guaranteed. Factors such as the timing of the pill, your menstrual cycle, and individual body responses can influence its effectiveness. If your next period is significantly delayed (more than a week late), it would be advisable to take a pregnancy test to confirm whether or not you are pregnant.

In summary, based on the information provided, it seems that you have taken the necessary steps to prevent pregnancy after a potential risk. The symptoms you are experiencing are likely side effects of the emergency contraception rather than signs of pregnancy. However, if you have any concerns or if your menstrual cycle does not return to normal, it is always a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and further evaluation.

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