Should I Take Emergency Contraceptive Pills After a Risky Encounter?

Should I take birth control pills?

After having intercourse with my boyfriend, the condom did not come out completely; half of it was inside and half was outside, and I am unsure if any semen leaked out.
I usually keep track of my menstrual cycle, and although I know the chances of conception on that day are low, I am still afraid of getting pregnant.
Should I take emergency contraception? I am a bit scared of taking it because I have had a previous experience where I had to take emergency contraception due to my boyfriend's mistake, and I ended up with acute gastroenteritis the same day...

Ling, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2021/12/26

Dr. Wu Xianghui reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

1.
For pregnancy concerns, please take a home pregnancy test or visit a gynecologist for examination and evaluation four weeks after your most recent sexual intercourse.
2.
The menstrual cycle can be affected by various psychological and physiological factors.
If your period is more than two months late, it is recommended to see a gynecologist for examination and evaluation.

Reply Date: 2021/12/26

More Info

In your situation, it is understandable to feel anxious about the possibility of unintended pregnancy after a risky sexual encounter, especially when there was a condom mishap. The use of emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) is a valid option to consider in such cases.
Emergency contraceptive pills are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure, such as a broken condom or, in your case, a condom that did not fully withdraw. ECPs are most effective when taken as soon as possible after the incident, ideally within 72 hours, but some types can be effective up to 5 days after unprotected sex. The sooner you take them, the better the chances of preventing pregnancy.

Regarding your concerns about taking ECPs, it is important to note that while they can cause side effects, such as nausea, fatigue, or changes in your menstrual cycle, they are generally safe for most women. Your previous experience with acute gastroenteritis after taking ECPs may have been coincidental, but if you are concerned about side effects, you might want to discuss this with a healthcare provider before making a decision. They can provide you with information on the different types of emergency contraceptive pills available, such as levonorgestrel (Plan B) and ulipristal acetate (Ella), and help you choose the one that is best for you.

If you decide to take ECPs, it is also important to monitor your body for any unusual symptoms after taking the medication. If you experience severe side effects or if your period is more than a week late after taking the pills, you should take a pregnancy test and consult a healthcare professional.

In addition to considering ECPs, it may also be beneficial to discuss long-term contraceptive options with your healthcare provider. There are many effective methods available, including hormonal birth control pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and implants, which can provide reliable protection against unintended pregnancy and may alleviate the anxiety associated with occasional contraceptive failures.

Lastly, it is crucial to remember that while ECPs can prevent pregnancy, they do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you have concerns about STIs, it is advisable to get tested, especially since the risk of transmission can increase with any unprotected sexual encounter.

In summary, taking emergency contraceptive pills after a risky encounter is a reasonable option to prevent unintended pregnancy. Consult with a healthcare provider to discuss your concerns, understand the options available, and make an informed decision that aligns with your health and comfort.

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