Emergency Contraception: Concerns and Symptoms Explained

Emergency contraceptive pill

Hello, doctor.
On February 27th, around 21:40, I had intercourse (without a condom and no ejaculation, the process lasted about 1-2 minutes before withdrawal).
I was concerned that the male partner's secretions might contain a small amount of sperm, so I took the emergency contraceptive pill (Ella) about 3-4 hours later.
After taking it, I did not experience significant side effects; however, yesterday (March 1st), I developed symptoms such as fever, chills, migraine, and fatigue, so I took Tylenol.
After taking it, the cold symptoms disappeared, and I currently do not feel any discomfort.
My last two menstrual periods were on December 26th and February 3rd, lasting about 7-9 days, and my cycle is not very regular.
I read online that menstruation usually occurs 2-7 days after taking the medication, but mine has not arrived yet, and I am worried that the emergency contraceptive may not have worked.
Additionally, I would like to ask the doctor, what is the likelihood of pregnancy in my situation? (Thank you for patiently reading my question, and I wish you a wonderful day!)

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/02

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, emergency contraceptive pills can sometimes cause irregular menstruation; just monitor the situation, and it should not result in pregnancy.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/03/02

More Info

Emergency contraception (EC) is a critical option for individuals who have had unprotected intercourse and wish to prevent an unintended pregnancy. In your case, you took Ella (ulipristal acetate) within a few hours after the encounter, which is a highly effective form of emergency contraception. It is designed to delay or inhibit ovulation, thereby preventing fertilization.
Regarding your concerns about the symptoms you experienced after taking the medication, it is important to note that side effects can occur, although they are generally mild. Common side effects of Ella can include headache, nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, and dizziness. The symptoms you mentioned—fever, chills, headache, and fatigue—could potentially be related to the medication, but they could also be coincidental and related to another illness, such as a viral infection. It’s good to hear that you took paracetamol (Tylenol) and that your symptoms improved afterward.

As for your menstrual cycle, it is not uncommon for emergency contraception to cause a delay in your next period. Since your cycles are not very regular, it may take some time for your body to adjust after taking the EC. Typically, you can expect your period to arrive within a week or so after taking the medication, but it can be delayed for several days or even longer in some cases. If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test to confirm whether or not you are pregnant.

In terms of the likelihood of pregnancy, since you took the emergency contraception shortly after the unprotected intercourse, the chances of becoming pregnant are significantly reduced. However, no method of contraception is 100% effective, and there is always a small risk involved. Given that you did not have ejaculation during intercourse and took the EC promptly, the risk of pregnancy is likely low.

If you continue to have concerns about your symptoms or if your period does not arrive within a week, it would be wise to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide further evaluation and guidance, including a pregnancy test if necessary. Additionally, if you find yourself frequently in situations where you might need emergency contraception, consider discussing long-term contraceptive options with your healthcare provider to find a method that suits your lifestyle and needs.

In summary, while your symptoms may be concerning, they are not uncommon after taking emergency contraception. Monitor your menstrual cycle closely, and if you experience any unusual symptoms or if your period is significantly delayed, seek medical advice for peace of mind and further assistance.

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