Emergency Contraceptive Pills: What You Need to Know

Emergency contraceptive pill (ECP)

Hello, I would like to ask my first question.
I have seen information about this type of contraceptive pill online, but I haven't seen anyone who has purchased it.
Can I only obtain this type of contraceptive pill after consulting a doctor at a hospital? This is the type of contraceptive pill I need.

My second question is: If I take a regular combined oral contraceptive pill (21-day type) and have sexual intercourse with ejaculation seven days after starting the pill, and I have completed the month's course, but I do not plan to have sexual intercourse next month, do I still need to take the next pack of pills to maintain contraceptive effectiveness, or is it sufficient to have taken the pills for this month? Thank you.

47, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/06/25

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

I saw this kind of information online, but I haven't seen anyone who has purchased it.
Can I ask if this type of contraceptive pill can only be obtained after consulting a doctor at a hospital? Because the contraceptive pill I need is of this type.

Answer: Emergency contraceptive pill? Fast-acting?
Second question: If I take a regular combined oral contraceptive pill (21-day type), have sexual intercourse with ejaculation after taking it for seven days, and I have completed the month's dosage, but I will not have sexual intercourse again next month, do I need to take the next pack of pills to maintain contraceptive effectiveness, or is it sufficient that I took them this month?
Answer: Taking them this month is sufficient.

Reply Date: 2019/06/25

More Info

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are a crucial option for preventing unintended pregnancies after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. Here’s what you need to know regarding your questions about ECPs and regular contraceptive pills.

Accessing Emergency Contraceptive Pills
1. Where to Obtain ECPs: In many countries, emergency contraceptive pills are available over-the-counter at pharmacies without a prescription. However, the regulations can vary significantly depending on your location. In the United States, for example, ECPs like Plan B One-Step and its generics can be purchased without a prescription by individuals of any age. It’s advisable to check with local pharmacies or health clinics to confirm availability.

2. Consultation with a Healthcare Provider: While you may not need a prescription, consulting with a healthcare provider can be beneficial. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and needs. If you have specific medical conditions or are taking other medications, a healthcare professional can help ensure that ECPs are safe for you.

Regular Contraceptive Pills and Their Use
1. Understanding Regular Contraceptive Pills: If you are taking a standard 21-day birth control pill regimen, it is designed to provide contraceptive protection throughout the month. When taken correctly, these pills are highly effective in preventing pregnancy.

2. What Happens After Seven Days: If you have been taking your regular contraceptive pills for at least seven days and then engage in unprotected sex, you are generally protected from pregnancy, provided you have taken the pills consistently and correctly. The hormonal levels from the pills should be sufficient to prevent ovulation.

3. Continuing the Pill: If you do not plan to have any further sexual intercourse in the following month, you may choose not to continue with the next pack of pills. However, it is essential to understand that stopping the pills can lead to a return of your natural menstrual cycle and potential ovulation. If you wish to avoid pregnancy in the future, it is advisable to continue taking the pills as directed.

4. Missed Pills: If you miss a pill or do not take them consistently, your risk of pregnancy increases. In such cases, it may be wise to use a backup method of contraception, such as condoms, or consider using ECPs if you have had unprotected intercourse.

Conclusion
In summary, emergency contraceptive pills are a safe and effective way to prevent unintended pregnancies after unprotected sex. They can often be obtained without a prescription, but consulting a healthcare provider can provide additional guidance tailored to your situation. Regular contraceptive pills require consistent use for maximum effectiveness, and if you have taken them correctly, you should be protected even after having unprotected sex within the first month. Always consider your future contraceptive needs and consult with a healthcare professional if you have any doubts or questions regarding your contraceptive methods.

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