Emergency Contraceptive Pills: What You Need to Know - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. It's important to understand how they work, their effectiveness, and the types available.
The most commonly known ECPs are those that contain levonorgestrel (Plan B One-Step) or ulipristal acetate (Ella). These pills are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, ideally within 72 hours for levonorgestrel and up to 120 hours for ulipristal. They work primarily by delaying ovulation, which means they prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg. If ovulation has already occurred, ECPs may not be effective.

In your case, it seems that the physician prescribed a medication that you are unfamiliar with, specifically "依汝膜衣錠" (which translates to "Yuzhu film-coated tablets") and a stomach medication. It's crucial to clarify what these medications are intended for. The first medication may not be a standard emergency contraceptive pill, and the stomach medication could be for managing side effects or discomfort associated with taking the ECPs.

If you have concerns about the effectiveness of the prescribed medication, it’s essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can clarify whether the medication prescribed is indeed an emergency contraceptive and how it works. If it turns out that the medication is not an ECP, you may want to ask for a standard ECP like Plan B or Ella, which are specifically formulated for emergency contraception.

It's also worth noting that while ECPs are effective, they are not 100% guaranteed to prevent pregnancy. Factors such as the timing of administration in relation to your menstrual cycle and how soon after intercourse the pill is taken can influence effectiveness.
In addition to understanding the medication, it's important to consider follow-up care. If you do take the ECP and experience any unusual symptoms or if your period is delayed by more than a week, you should take a pregnancy test and consult your healthcare provider for further guidance.

In summary, while emergency contraceptive pills are a reliable option for preventing pregnancy after unprotected intercourse, it’s vital to ensure that you are taking the correct medication. Always communicate openly with your healthcare provider about your concerns and seek clarification on any prescriptions you receive.