Can You Get Pregnant While Taking Menstrual Delay Pills?

Emergency contraceptive pills

My menstrual cycle is 27 days, and my period is usually very regular.
This month, my ovulation is on May 11, and I expect my period to start on May 25.
Due to some circumstances, I need to delay my period by 3 to 4 days.
After consulting at the pharmacy, I was prescribed medication and advised to take one packet at the same time every day starting from May 20 for five consecutive days.
I would like to know if having sexual intercourse during the medication period could result in pregnancy?

Xiao An Jie, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/03

Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

This question has already been answered.

Reply Date: 2021/05/03

More Info

When considering the use of menstrual delay pills, it's essential to understand how these medications work and their implications for pregnancy. Menstrual delay pills, often containing hormones like norethisterone, are designed to postpone menstruation by altering the hormonal signals that regulate the menstrual cycle.
In your case, since you have a regular 27-day cycle and are planning to take the pills starting on May 20th, it's important to note that these pills are most effective when taken as directed. If you begin taking the pills before your expected period, they can help delay menstruation for a few days, allowing you to manage your schedule as needed.

However, regarding your question about the possibility of becoming pregnant while taking these pills, the answer is nuanced. Menstrual delay pills do not serve as contraceptives. Therefore, if you engage in unprotected sexual intercourse during the time you are taking these pills, there is still a risk of becoming pregnant. The hormonal changes induced by the pills primarily affect the menstrual cycle and do not prevent ovulation or fertilization from occurring.

If you are taking the pills correctly and consistently, they may delay your period, but they do not guarantee that ovulation will not occur. If you have unprotected sex during your fertile window (which, in your case, is around May 11th), there is a chance that sperm could fertilize an egg if ovulation has occurred. Since you mentioned your ovulation is expected around May 11th, and you plan to start the pills on May 20th, it is possible that you could still be at risk for pregnancy if you have sex before or during the time you are taking the pills.

To summarize, while menstrual delay pills can effectively postpone your period, they do not prevent pregnancy. If you are looking to avoid pregnancy, it is crucial to use an additional form of contraception, such as condoms or hormonal birth control, during this time. If you have any concerns about your cycle, the use of these pills, or your fertility, it is always advisable to consult with a healthcare provider who can provide personalized advice based on your medical history and current health status.

In addition, if you are considering using menstrual delay pills frequently, it is important to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can help you understand the potential side effects and ensure that this method is appropriate for your health needs. Regular use of hormonal medications can have implications for your overall hormonal balance and menstrual health, so professional guidance is essential.

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