Emergency Contraception: Do You Need It After Birth Control Pills? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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When it comes to emergency contraception (EC) and the use of birth control pills, it's essential to understand how these methods work and when they are necessary. In your case, you mentioned that you started taking birth control pills on February 7 and had an incident on February 13 where the condom broke. Let's break down your situation.

First, it's important to note that birth control pills are designed to prevent ovulation, and when taken correctly, they are highly effective at preventing pregnancy. However, if you have just started taking the pill, it may take some time for it to become fully effective, especially if you started it after your menstrual cycle. Generally, it is recommended to use additional contraception, such as condoms, for the first seven days after starting the pill.

Since you had a condom failure on February 13, which is within the first week of starting the pill, there is a possibility that you could be at risk for pregnancy, depending on whether you had been taking the pill consistently and correctly. If you have taken your birth control pills as directed since starting them, the risk of pregnancy is lower, but it is not zero, especially considering the timing of your cycle and the fact that you were still within the initial period of starting the pill.

In this situation, taking emergency contraception (EC) could be a prudent choice. EC is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours, but some forms can be taken up to 5 days after. There are different types of EC available, including levonorgestrel (Plan B) and ulipristal acetate (ella). If you are within the appropriate time frame, you should consider taking one of these options to further reduce the risk of pregnancy.

As for whether you should continue taking your regular birth control pills, the answer is yes. You should continue taking your birth control pills as prescribed, even if you decide to take emergency contraception. The EC will not interfere with the effectiveness of your ongoing birth control method. However, it's important to note that some forms of EC may cause temporary changes in your menstrual cycle, so you might experience some irregularities in your next period.

In summary, given that you had a condom failure shortly after starting your birth control pills, taking emergency contraception would be a wise decision to minimize the risk of unintended pregnancy. Continue with your birth control pills as usual, and monitor your menstrual cycle for any changes. If you have any further concerns or if your next period is significantly delayed, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for further guidance.