Emergency Contraception: Should You Take It Again After Condom Failure?

The condom broke after intercourse, and ovulation is expected in the next couple of days?

Hello, I would like to ask if I should take the emergency contraceptive pill (Plan B) again after just finishing my period and the condom broke.
I found information online that suggests it could be very harmful to the body, so I'm hesitant about taking it a second time.
After taking the emergency contraceptive, I'm also a bit confused about calculating my ovulation period.
I took the pill on October 30, and on the morning of November 5, I had some bleeding, but the color of the blood didn't seem like menstrual blood.
For the next two mornings, there was also some fresh blood, but it was only a small amount over those three days.
Starting November 8, it began to resemble menstrual blood, and I experienced abdominal pain, continuing until November 15.
On November 18, the condom broke again, so I'm urgently inquiring whether I can take the emergency contraceptive pill again, or if there are other emergency options available, or if I should just wait to take a pregnancy test?

Wang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2019/11/18

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

If you have just taken the emergency contraceptive pill (Plan B) and your period has just ended, but the condom broke again, you should consider taking another dose.
However, there are concerns about the potential risks of taking emergency contraception multiple times in a short period.
After taking the emergency contraceptive pill, calculating your ovulation can be confusing.
You took the pill on October 30, experienced some bleeding on the morning of November 5, which was bright red and did not resemble menstrual blood, followed by light bleeding for two more mornings.
Your menstrual flow started on November 8, lasting until November 15, accompanied by abdominal pain.
Since the condom broke again on November 18, it is advisable to take another emergency contraceptive pill or explore other urgent options, or you may have to wait to take a pregnancy test.

Reply Date: 2019/11/18

More Info

When it comes to emergency contraception, it's important to understand how it works and the implications of taking it multiple times in a short period. Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), such as Plan B (Levonorgestrel) or Ella (Ulipristal Acetate), are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure, such as a broken condom.
In your case, you mentioned that you took emergency contraception after a condom failure and are now faced with another potential risk due to a second condom failure shortly after. The general recommendation is that if you have already taken an emergency contraceptive pill and then experience another contraceptive failure, you can take another dose of emergency contraception. However, it is crucial to consider a few factors:
1. Timing: Emergency contraceptive pills are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse. If you take a second dose, ensure that it is within the recommended time frame for the specific type of ECP you are using.

2. Frequency of Use: While it is safe to take emergency contraception more than once in a cycle, it is not intended to be used as a regular form of birth control. Frequent use can lead to menstrual irregularities, such as changes in your cycle, heavier or lighter periods, or unexpected bleeding.
3. Potential Side Effects: Taking emergency contraception can cause side effects, including nausea, fatigue, headache, dizziness, and changes in your menstrual cycle. While it is generally safe, taking it multiple times in a short period can increase the likelihood of experiencing these side effects.

4. Menstrual Cycle Considerations: You mentioned that you experienced some bleeding after taking the emergency contraceptive pill. This could be a side effect of the medication or an indication that your menstrual cycle is adjusting. It's essential to monitor your cycle and any unusual symptoms. If you experience significant changes or have concerns, consulting a healthcare provider is advisable.

5. Alternative Options: If you are concerned about taking emergency contraception again, you might consider discussing other options with a healthcare provider. They can provide guidance on long-term contraceptive methods that may be more suitable for your needs and help you avoid the stress of repeated emergency contraception.

6. Pregnancy Testing: After taking emergency contraception, if your next 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, if you are considering taking emergency contraception again after a second condom failure, it is generally acceptable to do so, but be mindful of the potential side effects and the importance of using regular contraception in the future. If you have any doubts or experience unusual symptoms, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

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