Pregnancy Chances and Testing After Contraceptive Failure

Pregnancy probability? Pregnancy test questions?

Hello doctor, I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend on July 19, and the condom broke.
We continued without it, and he withdrew before ejaculation.
I took emergency contraception 13 hours after the intercourse on July 19.
My last menstrual period was from July 4 to July 8.
After taking the medication, I experienced bleeding from July 24 to July 28, which was similar to my menstrual flow.
Can this bleeding be considered my period? Should I take a pregnancy test first? My next expected period is on August 7.
If I do not get my period, should I take a pregnancy test?

Nìmíng, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/07/30

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

On July 19, I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend.
The condom broke, and we continued without it.
He withdrew before ejaculation and I took emergency contraception 13 hours after the intercourse on July 19.
My last menstrual period was from July 4 to July 8.
After taking the medication, I experienced bleeding from July 24 to July 28 that was similar to my menstrual flow.
Can this bleeding be considered my period? Answer: Not necessarily.
Should I take a pregnancy test first? Answer: No need to take a pregnancy test.
My next period is expected on August 7.
If I do not get my period, should I take a pregnancy test? Answer: Yes.

Reply Date: 2019/07/30

More Info

When it comes to understanding pregnancy chances and testing after contraceptive failure, there are several important factors to consider. In your case, you experienced a contraceptive failure due to a broken condom during intercourse, followed by the use of emergency contraception (the morning-after pill) within 13 hours. This is a critical step in preventing an unintended pregnancy, as emergency contraception is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse.

You mentioned that you experienced bleeding from July 24 to July 28, which you described as similar to your menstrual flow. This bleeding could be a side effect of the emergency contraception, as it can cause changes in your menstrual cycle. It's important to note that this bleeding may not necessarily be a true menstrual period, especially since you took the emergency contraceptive. Many women experience what is known as "withdrawal bleeding" after taking the pill, which can mimic a period but is not the same as a regular menstrual cycle.

Given your last menstrual period was from July 4 to July 8, and considering the timing of your emergency contraception and subsequent bleeding, it is possible that your cycle has been disrupted. The next expected period would be around August 7. If you do not experience your period by that date, it would be advisable to take a pregnancy test. Home pregnancy tests are generally reliable and can detect pregnancy about a week after a missed period.
If the test is positive, it is important to follow up with a healthcare provider for further evaluation and to discuss your options. If the test is negative and you still do not get your period, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare professional, as there could be other underlying factors affecting your menstrual cycle.

In summary, the bleeding you experienced after taking the emergency contraceptive could be a side effect rather than a definitive indication of your menstrual cycle. If your period does not arrive as expected, taking a pregnancy test is the next logical step. If you have any concerns or if your cycle continues to be irregular, seeking medical advice is always a good practice to ensure your reproductive health is monitored and managed appropriately.

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