Do I Need Emergency Contraception After Unprotected Intercourse?

In this situation, is it necessary to take emergency contraception?

Last month, I accidentally became pregnant and took abortion medication on February 12.
My period started on March 17, but on March 25 and 26, I noticed some endometrial tissue and menstrual flow.
On March 29, after using a condom, I noticed some brown discharge.
My boyfriend did not clean up, but after an hour, he inserted without a condom for a few thrusts and then stopped.
Do I need to take emergency contraception? If so, would this harm my uterus again? Thank you, doctor, for your response.

Lin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/03/30

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low, and there may not be a need for emergency contraception.
It is always best to use preventive measures throughout the entire sexual activity and not to rely on the safe period.
Generally, emergency contraceptive pills should be taken within 48 hours.
If your period does not arrive and it has been more than a week, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2019/03/30

More Info

When considering whether you need emergency contraception after unprotected intercourse, it's essential to evaluate the timing of your menstrual cycle, the nature of the intercourse, and any previous medical history that may affect your decision.

From your description, it appears that you had a menstrual period on March 17, which suggests that you were likely in the luteal phase of your cycle when the unprotected intercourse occurred on March 29. The luteal phase typically occurs after ovulation and before the start of your next period. If you had a regular cycle, ovulation would have likely occurred around 14 days before your period, which means you were not in your fertile window during the unprotected intercourse. However, sperm can live inside the female reproductive tract for up to five days, so if you ovulated later than expected, there is a slight chance of pregnancy.

Regarding the brown discharge you observed, this could be remnants of your menstrual cycle or implantation bleeding if fertilization occurred. However, since you mentioned that your boyfriend did not ejaculate inside you during the unprotected intercourse, the risk of pregnancy is significantly reduced.

Emergency contraception (EC) is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours, but some forms can be effective up to five days after. If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, taking EC can provide peace of mind. It is important to note that taking emergency contraception does not harm your uterus or future fertility. The primary mechanism of action is to prevent ovulation or fertilization, and it does not terminate an existing pregnancy.

If you decide to take emergency contraception, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider to discuss your options and any potential side effects. They can also provide guidance on how to manage your menstrual cycle after taking EC.

In summary, while the risk of pregnancy seems low based on your description, if you have any concerns or if you are experiencing unusual symptoms, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional. They can help you make an informed decision and provide the necessary support for your reproductive health.

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