Probability of Pregnancy
Hello doctor, I got my period on January 20th and took the emergency contraceptive pill (Ella) for the first time on January 23rd.
My period ended on January 24th.
I had unprotected intercourse on January 26th, 27th, and 28th.
My usual cycle is over 35 days, and the app indicates that it is a safe period.
However, I understand that the contraceptive pill takes more than 7 days to be effective.
Is there a chance of pregnancy during this safe period?
Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/02/03
Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, taking birth control pills should be safe.
Wishing you good health.
Reply Date: 2021/02/03
More Info
When considering the chances of pregnancy during the safe period while using birth control pills, it's essential to understand both the mechanics of the menstrual cycle and the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptives.
Firstly, the menstrual cycle is typically divided into several phases: the menstrual phase, follicular phase, ovulation, and luteal phase. The "safe period" refers to the days in the cycle when the likelihood of ovulation is low, and thus the chances of conception are minimal. For women with a longer cycle, such as 35 days, ovulation usually occurs around day 21 of the cycle (counting from the first day of the last menstrual period). Therefore, the days immediately following menstruation can be considered safer, but this is not a foolproof method of avoiding pregnancy.
In your case, you started taking the birth control pill (in this case, "Aivee") on January 23, just after your period ended. It is crucial to note that most birth control pills require at least seven days of consistent use to reach maximum effectiveness. This means that during the first week of taking the pill, your body may not yet be fully protected against pregnancy.
You mentioned having unprotected intercourse on January 26, 27, and 28. Since you had just begun taking the pill, there is a risk of pregnancy during this time, even if it falls within what you believe to be the "safe period." The effectiveness of the pill increases significantly after seven consecutive days of use, but prior to that, the risk of ovulation and subsequent conception remains.
Moreover, while tracking your cycle with an app can provide insights into your fertile window, it is not always accurate. Factors such as stress, illness, and lifestyle changes can affect ovulation timing, making it difficult to rely solely on calendar methods for contraception.
In summary, while you were in what you considered a safe period, the fact that you had just started taking the birth control pill means that there is a possibility of pregnancy from the unprotected intercourse. If you are concerned about the risk of pregnancy, consider taking a home pregnancy test if your next period is late, or consult with your healthcare provider for further guidance.
Additionally, if you are looking for more reliable contraception methods, you might want to discuss with your healthcare provider about long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) such as IUDs or implants, which provide effective protection without the need for daily attention.
In conclusion, while the use of birth control pills significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy, it is essential to use them correctly and consistently, especially during the initial days of use. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and to explore the best contraceptive options for your lifestyle and health needs.
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