the Risks of Withdrawal Method and Emergency Contraception

Dangerous period outside the body

Hello, doctor.
I had my last period on April 24th, and my cycle usually ranges from 33 to 35 days, but it took 38 days for my last period to arrive.
On May 12th, I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend.
We initially used a condom, but after a while, we removed it and continued, with ejaculation occurring outside.
Since this was during my fertile window, I am concerned about the possibility of pregnancy.
I took emergency contraception on May 13th, along with medication recommended by the pharmacist to protect the uterus.
Is there a chance I could be pregnant? Additionally, I feel like after taking the emergency contraception, the amount of urine I produce has decreased.
Every time I go to the bathroom, it seems like there’s only a little bit (urine).

z, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/14

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, it is likely that you are not pregnant.
The light flow is not related to the contraceptive pill.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/05/14

More Info

When it comes to understanding the risks associated with withdrawal methods and emergency contraception, it's essential to consider both the effectiveness of these methods and the potential side effects of emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs).

Firstly, the withdrawal method, also known as "pulling out," involves the male partner withdrawing his penis from the vagina before ejaculation to prevent sperm from entering the reproductive tract. While this method can reduce the risk of pregnancy, it is not foolproof. Pre-ejaculatory fluid (pre-cum) can contain sperm, and if the male partner does not withdraw in time, there is still a risk of pregnancy. Studies suggest that the typical failure rate of the withdrawal method is around 22%, meaning that about 1 in 5 couples relying solely on this method may experience an unintended pregnancy within a year.

In your case, since you had unprotected intercourse after initially using a condom, there is a possibility of sperm exposure, especially if the withdrawal was not perfectly timed. This concern is valid, particularly during your fertile window, which typically occurs around the time of ovulation.

You mentioned taking emergency contraception (EC) on May 13, which is a proactive step to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. Emergency contraceptive pills, such as Plan B (levonorgestrel) or Ella (ulipristal acetate), are designed to inhibit or delay ovulation, thereby preventing fertilization. When taken within 72 hours (Plan B) or up to 120 hours (Ella) after unprotected intercourse, these pills can significantly reduce the risk of pregnancy. However, their effectiveness decreases the longer you wait to take them after the unprotected intercourse.

Regarding your observation about urination frequency after taking the emergency contraceptive, it is important to note that hormonal changes caused by ECPs can lead to various side effects. Common side effects of ECPs include nausea, fatigue, headache, dizziness, and changes in menstrual patterns. Some women report changes in urinary habits, such as increased frequency or urgency, but this is less common. If you are experiencing a significant change in urination, it may be worth discussing with a healthcare provider to rule out any other underlying issues.

In summary, while the withdrawal method carries a risk of pregnancy, taking emergency contraception can help mitigate that risk if taken promptly. It’s essential to monitor your body for any unusual symptoms following the use of ECPs and consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about your menstrual cycle or any side effects you are experiencing. If you have further questions about your contraceptive options or if you are considering long-term methods of contraception, discussing these with a healthcare provider can provide personalized guidance based on your health history and lifestyle.

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