Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Birth Control for 9 Days?

Could I become pregnant?

If you started taking the emergency contraceptive pill (like Ella or Plan B) for the first time on the sixth day of your menstrual cycle and continued for nine days, there is still a possibility of pregnancy if you had unprotected intercourse on the ninth day.

If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, it is advisable to consider taking emergency contraception, which can be effective if taken within 72 to 120 hours after unprotected intercourse, depending on the type of pill.
It is also recommended to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and to discuss your options.

Tiffany, 40~49 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/05/23

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, you should not be pregnant.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2020/05/23

More Info

When it comes to the effectiveness of birth control pills, timing and adherence to the regimen are crucial. Birth control pills, when taken correctly, are highly effective in preventing pregnancy. However, if you start taking the pill after your menstrual cycle has begun, it typically takes about seven days for the pill to become fully effective in preventing ovulation.
In your case, since you started taking the birth control pill on the sixth day of your menstrual cycle and had unprotected intercourse on the ninth day, you may not have been fully protected against pregnancy. This is because the pill generally requires a full week of consistent use to effectively suppress ovulation. Therefore, there is a possibility of becoming pregnant if you had unprotected sex during this time.

If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, you have a few options:
1. Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECPs): If you had unprotected sex within the last 72 to 120 hours (depending on the type of emergency contraceptive), you can take an emergency contraceptive pill. These pills are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse and are most effective the sooner they are taken.
2. Wait and Test: If you miss your next period, you can take a home pregnancy test to determine if you are pregnant. These tests are generally accurate if taken after a missed period.

3. Consult Your Healthcare Provider: It’s always a good idea to discuss your situation with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your health history and current situation.

In addition to these options, it’s important to remember that while birth control pills are effective, no contraceptive method is 100% foolproof. Factors such as missed doses, gastrointestinal issues (like vomiting or diarrhea), and interactions with other medications can affect the efficacy of the pill.
To enhance your understanding of birth control, here are some key points:
- Consistency is Key: Taking the pill at the same time every day maximizes its effectiveness. If you miss a dose, follow the instructions provided with your medication regarding what to do next.

- Backup Methods: If you are starting a new birth control method, consider using a backup method (like condoms) for the first week to ensure you are protected.

- Regular Check-ups: Regular visits to your healthcare provider can help you manage your birth control method effectively and address any concerns you may have.

In summary, while there is a possibility of pregnancy after taking birth control pills for just nine days, especially if you had unprotected sex before the pills became fully effective, you do have options to prevent pregnancy post-intercourse. Always consult with a healthcare provider for the best course of action tailored to your specific circumstances.

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Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
If there was unprotected intercourse on the first day after stopping the medication for 7 days, and there are no plans to take contraceptive pills again for the next month, will this result in pregnancy? Answer: This will not result in pregnancy.

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Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
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Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
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