Emergency Contraceptive Pills: What You Need to Know About Pregnancy Risks - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. In your case, since you and your girlfriend had unprotected sex on February 12 and she took the emergency contraceptive pill shortly afterward, the likelihood of pregnancy is significantly reduced, but not entirely eliminated.

ECPs, such as levonorgestrel (Plan B) or ulipristal acetate (Ella), work primarily by delaying ovulation. If ovulation has already occurred, the effectiveness of ECPs decreases. The sooner they are taken after unprotected intercourse, the more effective they are. If taken within 72 hours, levonorgestrel can reduce the risk of pregnancy by up to 89%. Ulipristal acetate can be effective up to 120 hours after intercourse, making it a more flexible option.

Regarding your girlfriend's menstrual cycle, if her last period started on January 27, she would likely expect her next period around February 24, assuming a typical 28-day cycle. If her period does not arrive on time, it is essential to take a pregnancy test. Home pregnancy tests are generally reliable and can detect pregnancy as early as the first day of a missed period. If the test is positive, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for further guidance.

In the meantime, if your girlfriend experiences any unusual symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, or any signs of an ectopic pregnancy (which can occur in rare cases), she should seek medical attention immediately. Ectopic pregnancies can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

It is also important to consider that ECPs can cause some side effects, including nausea, fatigue, headache, and changes in the menstrual cycle. Some women may experience their next period earlier or later than expected, and the flow may be lighter or heavier than usual. These variations are generally normal and should not cause alarm unless accompanied by severe symptoms.

If your girlfriend's period is significantly delayed (more than a week), or if she has any concerns about her health or the possibility of pregnancy, she should reach out to a healthcare provider for personalized advice and support. Additionally, discussing long-term contraceptive options may be beneficial to prevent future instances of unprotected intercourse.

In summary, while the use of emergency contraceptive pills significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy after unprotected sex, it is not 100% effective. Monitoring her menstrual cycle and taking a pregnancy test if her period is late will provide clarity. If there are any concerning symptoms or questions, seeking medical advice is always the best course of action.