Can Emergency Contraceptive Pills Prevent Pregnancy? Your Questions Answered

Q: Can Emergency Contraceptive Pills Prevent Pregnancy? Your Questions Answered

Ms. Chang： Hello, in response to your questions, here are the answers： 1. The probability is very low. 2. If there is a possibility of pregnancy from the last sexual intercourse, a test can be done 10 days later. 3. Abnormal menstrual cycles (such as unusu

Is it possible to become pregnant while using emergency contraception?

Hello, Doctor.

1.
I took the emergency contraceptive pill (Ella) on the first day of my cycle on December 10th.
I had unprotected intercourse on December 17th and 18th, and starting from December 24th to 25th, I felt some breast tenderness, severe bloating, and had acne, along with a sensation that my period was about to come.
Is there a possibility of pregnancy? Additionally, I had my wisdom teeth extracted on December 20th and took pain medication (Cataflam) and Amoxicillin, while continuing to take the contraceptive pill at staggered times.
2.
If I want to take a pregnancy test, should I wait until 7 days after my next withdrawal bleed to test, or can I test earlier?
3.
I read online that some people can still test positive for pregnancy even if they have their period.
How can I determine if I am truly pregnant? Thank you, Doctor.

Ms. Zhang, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/12/26

Dr. Lin Manying reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Ms.
Chang: Hello, in response to your questions, here are the answers: 1.
The probability is very low.
2.
If there is a possibility of pregnancy from the last sexual intercourse, a test can be done 10 days later.
3.
Abnormal menstrual cycles (such as unusually light or heavy flow, or irregular intervals) may also indicate a possibility of pregnancy.
Hualien Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, cares about your health.

Reply Date: 2022/12/26

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 taking a regular contraceptive pill (愛事錠) and having unprotected intercourse. If you were taking your birth control pills consistently and correctly, the likelihood of pregnancy is significantly reduced. However, if you missed any doses or took them irregularly, the risk of pregnancy increases. The symptoms you are experiencing, such as breast tenderness, bloating, and acne, can be attributed to hormonal changes, which can occur with both the use of contraceptive pills and the menstrual cycle itself.
Regarding your question about pregnancy testing, it is generally recommended to wait until at least the first day of your expected period to take a home pregnancy test for the most accurate result. If your period does not arrive, testing a week after the missed period is advisable. Some tests can detect pregnancy earlier, but they are less reliable before a missed period.
It is also important to note that some women may experience bleeding even when they are pregnant, known as implantation bleeding, which can sometimes be mistaken for a menstrual period. Therefore, if you have any doubts or if your symptoms persist, it is best to consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.
In summary, while ECPs can prevent pregnancy, their effectiveness depends on timing and adherence to regular contraceptive methods. If you have concerns about potential pregnancy, monitoring your menstrual cycle and using a pregnancy test at the appropriate time will provide clarity. If you continue to experience unusual symptoms or have further questions, seeking medical advice is always a good step.

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