Am I Likely to Get Pregnant After Taking Emergency Contraceptive? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Hello doctor, I had unprotected intercourse on the morning of July 27th at 5 AM, and then again on the 9th without ejaculation.
After that, I took emergency contraception at 5 PM.
My period arrived on August 1st.
Is there a chance I could be pregnant?

Bella, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/08/29

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


On the morning of July 27th at 5 AM, I had unprotected intercourse but withdrew before ejaculation.
Then, I had intercourse again at 9 AM but did not ejaculate.
In the afternoon at 5 PM, I took emergency contraception, and my period started on August 1st.
Is there a chance I could be pregnant? Answer: There should be no chance of pregnancy.

Reply Date: 2019/08/29

More Info


When it comes to the effectiveness of emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), it’s important to understand how they work and the timing of your menstrual cycle. Emergency contraception is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure, such as a broken condom. The most common types of ECPs contain either levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate, both of which are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex.

In your case, you mentioned that you had unprotected intercourse on July 27 and took the emergency contraceptive pill on the same day. Since you experienced your menstrual period on August 1, it is likely that the ECP was effective in preventing pregnancy. The onset of your period typically indicates that you are not pregnant, as the hormonal changes associated with pregnancy would usually prevent menstruation.

To further clarify, the effectiveness of ECPs decreases the longer you wait to take them after unprotected intercourse. Levonorgestrel is most effective when taken within 72 hours, while ulipristal acetate can be taken up to 120 hours after intercourse. Since you took the ECP on the same day as the unprotected intercourse, you maximized your chances of preventing pregnancy.

It’s also important to note that ECPs can cause changes in your menstrual cycle. Some women may experience an earlier or later period than usual, as well as changes in flow and duration. If your period arrives within a week of when you expect it, this is generally a good sign that the ECP worked.

If you have any concerns about your menstrual cycle or if your period is significantly delayed beyond what is typical for you, it may be wise to take a pregnancy test for peace of mind. Additionally, if you experience any unusual symptoms or have further questions about your reproductive health, consulting with a healthcare provider is always a good approach.

In summary, based on the information you provided, it seems unlikely that you are pregnant since you took the emergency contraceptive pill promptly and your period arrived shortly thereafter. However, if you have any lingering doubts or experience any unusual symptoms, it’s always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and reassurance.

Similar Q&A

Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills?

The likelihood of becoming pregnant after taking emergency contraception and then engaging in unprotected intercourse three hours later, without ejaculation, is generally low. Emergency contraceptive pills are designed to prevent ovulation or fertilization if taken within a speci...


Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy are low, and you shouldn't rely on the safe period. It's better to take preventive measures before engaging in sexual activity. If your period is more than a week late, it's advisable to see a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.

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Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Emergency Contraceptive?

If the emergency contraceptive pill (Plan B) was taken within 24 hours after unprotected intercourse (with ejaculation occurring 1500 the previous day and the pill taken at 1430 the following day), the likelihood of pregnancy is significantly reduced. However, no emergency contra...


Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
The emergency contraceptive pill was taken one dose of "Yuzhu" close to 24 hours after unprotected intercourse (the previous day at 3:00 PM). Will this result in pregnancy? If so, what should I do? Answer: The likelihood of pregnancy is low in this case.

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Hello, after engaging in sexual intercourse (without ejaculation inside), I took emergency contraception. However, I had another similar encounter without ejaculation three days later, and my period came with normal bleeding. Is it possible that I could be pregnant?


Dr. Cai Yonglong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
The emergency contraceptive pill is 85% effective. If menstruation occurs, pregnancy is unlikely. If you have any questions, you can visit a gynecology clinic.

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Hello doctor, I took the emergency contraceptive pill for the first time on the twenty-first day of my cycle and had unprotected intercourse. After a seven-day break, I had unprotected intercourse again, totaling two times. Is there a chance I could be pregnant? Thank you, doctor...


Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, taking emergency contraception will prevent pregnancy. Wishing you good health.

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