Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills?

Can emergency contraception cause pregnancy?

My menstrual cycle typically occurs every 42 to 53 days.
I have been taking the emergency contraceptive pill for two weeks, but I started taking it about eight days after my period.
Is there a possibility of becoming pregnant if I had sexual intercourse during this time? I am currently taking Yaz 24+4 (I have 5 active pills and 4 inactive pills left).
Should I wait to see if my period comes after taking the inactive pills? Thank you, doctor.

an, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/05/21

Dr. Huang Zifei reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Dear An,
If you start taking the pills from the first to the fifth day of your menstrual cycle, there will be no contraceptive effect for that cycle.
Therefore, please use condoms during sexual intercourse until you start taking the white pills.
After finishing the white pills, monitor whether your period arrives.
If your period does not come within a week after finishing the white pills, please remember to take a pregnancy test.
If you have any other questions, please visit the obstetrics and gynecology outpatient clinic.

Dr.
Huang Zifei, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Nantou Hospital

Reply Date: 2021/05/21

More Info

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. They are most effective when taken as soon as possible after the event, ideally within 72 hours, but some types can be taken up to 5 days later. However, their effectiveness diminishes the longer you wait to take them.

In your case, you mentioned that you have a menstrual cycle that ranges from 42 to 53 days, which is considered irregular. You also indicated that you took a regular contraceptive pill (Yaz, which contains drospirenone and ethinyl estradiol) for two weeks before having unprotected intercourse about eight days after your last period. The fact that you are taking a combination oral contraceptive pill regularly is a significant factor in preventing pregnancy.

When taken correctly, combination oral contraceptives like Yaz are highly effective at preventing ovulation. If you were taking the pill consistently and correctly, the likelihood of becoming pregnant from unprotected intercourse during this time is low. However, if you missed any doses or did not take the pills as prescribed, the risk of pregnancy increases.

Regarding the use of emergency contraceptive pills after having unprotected intercourse, if you took them within the recommended time frame, they can further reduce the risk of pregnancy. However, if you are already on a regular contraceptive pill and have been taking it consistently, the need for ECPs may not be necessary, as the regular contraceptive should provide adequate protection.

It is also important to note that if you are waiting for your period to see if you are pregnant, you should keep in mind that ECPs can cause changes in your menstrual cycle. They may lead to a delay in your next period or cause it to be lighter or heavier than usual. If your period is significantly delayed (more than a week after the expected date), it would be advisable to take a pregnancy test for confirmation.

In summary, if you have been taking your regular contraceptive pills correctly, the chances of becoming pregnant after having unprotected intercourse are low. If you took emergency contraception within the appropriate time frame, it would further reduce the risk. If you have concerns about your menstrual cycle or potential pregnancy, consulting with a healthcare provider would be beneficial for personalized advice and guidance.

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