Is Taking Emergency Contraceptive Within 30 Minutes Effective?

Is taking emergency contraception within 30 minutes really effective?

I had sexual intercourse on June 24, which was the first day of my fertile period.
We used a condom throughout the entire act, but I discovered it had broken at the end.
I immediately went to the pharmacy to buy emergency contraception and the pharmacist also gave me a liquid supplement to drink.
I took the emergency contraception, branded as "Ningzhi," within about 30 minutes after the intercourse.
The pharmacist mentioned that there could be side effects, such as bleeding, but I have not experienced any side effects at all.
I would like to know if the emergency contraception was effective, as I am very worried about the possibility of pregnancy.
Recently, I have experienced some sensitivity and pain in my nipples, which is causing me a lot of stress and fear about being pregnant.

Xuan, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/08

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, emergency contraceptive pills should be taken within 48 hours.
The effectiveness of emergency contraception is approximately 90%, so the chances of pregnancy should be low.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2019/07/08

More Info

Taking emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) like the one you mentioned, commonly referred to as "Plan B" or "morning-after pills," can be effective if taken within a certain timeframe after unprotected intercourse. In your case, since you took the emergency contraceptive within 30 minutes of the incident, you are within the optimal window for effectiveness.
Emergency contraceptive pills are designed to prevent pregnancy primarily by delaying ovulation. If taken before ovulation occurs, they can significantly reduce the chance of pregnancy. The sooner you take the pill after unprotected intercourse, the more effective it is. Studies indicate that ECPs can be up to 95% effective when taken within 24 hours, and their effectiveness decreases as time passes.
Regarding the specific brand you mentioned, "妊止" (which translates to "Pregnancy Stop"), it is likely a form of levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate, both of which are common active ingredients in emergency contraceptives. The side effects you mentioned, such as bleeding or changes in menstrual patterns, are common and can occur as your body adjusts to the hormonal changes induced by the pill. However, the absence of side effects does not indicate that the pill was ineffective; many women do not experience noticeable side effects.

As for your concerns about breast sensitivity and potential pregnancy, it is important to note that breast tenderness can be a side effect of hormonal fluctuations, including those caused by taking emergency contraceptives. If your menstrual cycle is regular, you may want to wait until your expected period date to take a pregnancy test. If your period is delayed by more than a week, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test to confirm whether or not you are pregnant.

In summary, taking the emergency contraceptive pill within 30 minutes of the incident is a positive step, and you have maximized your chances of preventing pregnancy. If you have any lingering concerns or experience unusual symptoms, it is always best to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and support. They can provide further guidance based on your medical history and current situation. Remember, while emergency contraception is a reliable option, it is not intended for regular use and should not replace regular contraceptive methods.

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