How Soon Can You Confirm No Pregnancy After Taking Emergency Contraceptive?

How long after taking emergency contraception can I be sure I'm not pregnant?

On the night of June 3rd, I had intercourse and discovered a hole in the condom afterward.
I immediately went to buy and took emergency contraception.
How can I confirm that I am not pregnant?

GUAN, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2020/06/04

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the effectiveness of emergency contraceptive pills is not 100%, with a failure rate of about 3%.
However, it is still considered a remedial option.
It is recommended to check for pregnancy if your period is more than a week late.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2020/06/04

More Info

After taking emergency contraception, it is important to understand the timeline for confirming whether or not you are pregnant. Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), such as Plan B or Ella, are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure, such as a broken condom. They are most effective when taken as soon as possible after the incident, ideally within 72 hours, although some types can be taken up to 120 hours after intercourse.

In your case, since you took the emergency contraceptive pill immediately after discovering the condom failure, you have taken the right step to minimize the risk of pregnancy. However, to confirm whether or not you are pregnant, you should follow these guidelines:
1. Wait for Your Next Period: The most straightforward way to determine if you are pregnant is to wait for your next menstrual cycle. If your period is delayed by more than a week, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test (HPT). Most home pregnancy tests are reliable and can detect pregnancy as early as the first day of your missed period.

2. Timing of the Pregnancy Test: If you take a pregnancy test too early, it may not detect the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin), which is produced after a fertilized egg implants in the uterus. Therefore, if you take the test before your expected period, you might receive a false negative result. It is recommended to wait at least one week after your missed period for the most accurate result.

3. Follow-Up Testing: If you receive a negative result but still have not gotten your period after a week, it is a good idea to take another pregnancy test. If the second test is also negative and your period still does not arrive, consider consulting a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

4. Consult a Healthcare Provider: If you have any symptoms of pregnancy, such as nausea, breast tenderness, or fatigue, or if you have concerns about your menstrual cycle, it is wise to consult a healthcare provider. They can perform a blood test, which is more sensitive than a home pregnancy test and can detect pregnancy earlier.

5. Understanding the Effects of Emergency Contraceptives: It is also important to note that emergency contraceptives can cause changes in your menstrual cycle. You may experience a heavier or lighter period, or your period may come earlier or later than usual. This can sometimes lead to confusion regarding whether you are pregnant or if the emergency contraceptive has altered your cycle.

In summary, to confirm that you are not pregnant after taking emergency contraception, wait until your next period is due. If it is late, take a home pregnancy test. If you have any doubts or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for guidance. They can provide you with the necessary support and information regarding your reproductive health.

Similar Q&A

How to Confirm No Pregnancy After Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills

After taking emergency contraception, what conditions can confirm that pregnancy has not occurred?

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, emergency contraceptive pills should be taken within 48 hours. Pregnancy tests are most accurate when taken at least 12 days after conception. It's best to use preventive measures beforehand. If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to consult a gyneco...

Can You Confirm Pregnancy After Taking Emergency Contraceptive?

Can a pregnancy test taken more than two weeks after taking emergency contraception determine if the contraception was successful? I took the pill right after sexual intercourse, but it has been over a week and I still haven't gotten my period. My previous two situations wer...

Dr. Huang Jianxun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: It is advisable not to use emergency contraception as a regular method of birth control, as emergency contraceptive pills contain high doses of hormones. You should still take a pregnancy test if your period is late to confirm whether contraception has failed. Sincerely, D...

Can You Still Get Pregnant After Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills?

On July 24, I had intercourse with my boyfriend, and there was ejaculation inside during my ovulation period. The next day at noon, I took an emergency contraceptive pill (one tablet) within 72 hours. On the morning of August 1, I took a pregnancy test at the obstetrics and gynec...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, a pregnancy test is usually reliable after 12 days post-conception. The chances of pregnancy are low, so it's best to use contraception beforehand. If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to consult a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.

Pregnancy Concerns: Understanding Fertility Apps and Emergency Contraception

I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that.

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy should be low. Taking emergency contraception may cause irregular menstruation. You can take a pregnancy test 12 days after unprotected intercourse. For now, just monitor the situation. Wishing you good health.