Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Vomiting and Effectiveness Explained

Preemptive medication, vomiting, contraceptive effectiveness?

Hello, I am taking the contraceptive pill (Alesse) for the first time.
I started taking the first pill on the second day of my period, consistently at 11:00 PM.
However, on the fourth pill, I vomited the next morning at 8:00 AM (only water).
Do I need to take an additional pill? Should I continue taking the pills for 7 consecutive days to achieve contraceptive effectiveness, or will it be effective once I finish the original seventh pill? Thank you.

Q, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/03/28

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, there is no need to take additional pills; as long as you are taking them, they will provide contraceptive effects.
Start taking the birth control pills on the fifth day of your next menstrual period.
Wishing you good health!

Reply Date: 2023/03/28

More Info

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are a crucial option for preventing unintended pregnancies after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. When it comes to the effectiveness of ECPs, several factors can influence their efficacy, including timing of ingestion, the specific formulation of the pill, and physiological responses such as vomiting.

In your case, you mentioned that you started taking the ECP (likely a combined oral contraceptive) on the second day of your menstrual cycle and that you experienced vomiting after taking the fourth pill. Generally, if vomiting occurs within two hours of taking a pill, it can affect the absorption of the medication, potentially reducing its effectiveness. Since you vomited the morning after taking the fourth pill, it is advisable to take an additional pill to ensure that you have adequate hormone levels in your system.

Regarding your question about the continuation of the regimen, it is essential to follow the prescribed course of the medication. Typically, ECPs are taken for a specific duration (in your case, seven days) to achieve maximum effectiveness. If you vomited after taking the pill, you should continue taking the remaining pills as scheduled, but consider taking an additional pill if vomiting occurred within the two-hour window after ingestion.

The effectiveness of ECPs is contingent upon consistent and correct usage. If you complete the full course of pills as directed, you should have adequate contraceptive coverage. However, if you have concerns about the effectiveness due to vomiting or any other issues, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation and may recommend additional contraceptive measures, such as using condoms, until you can confirm the effectiveness of the ECP regimen.

In summary, if you vomited shortly after taking a pill, it is prudent to take another pill to ensure proper absorption. Continue taking the remaining pills as directed to maintain contraceptive effectiveness. If you have any doubts or experience any unusual symptoms, reach out to your healthcare provider for further advice. They can help clarify any concerns and ensure that you are taking the necessary steps to prevent unintended pregnancy effectively.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Side Effects and Efficacy

My girlfriend feels nauseous after taking the emergency contraceptive pill. After taking the second pill, she ate something two hours later and then ended up vomiting. Is this a side effect? If she vomits after taking the pill, will it still be effective?

Dr. Mao Yikun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: Emergency contraceptive pills are a type of hormone, and some people may experience nausea after taking them. If vomiting occurs more than two hours after taking the pill, it should not affect its efficacy.

Effectiveness of Emergency Contraceptive Pills After Vomiting

On the morning of December 24th, I had unprotected intercourse and in the afternoon, I bought Plan B (emergency contraceptive pill). I have gastroesophageal reflux disease, which caused me to vomit an hour and a half after taking the medication. Will the effectiveness of the pill...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, it is generally advisable to take preventive measures for contraception at all times, and not to rely on the calendar method. If your period is more than a week late, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.

Does Vomiting After Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pill Affect Its Effectiveness?

Taking emergency contraception within one hour after unprotected intercourse during the fertile window is generally effective. However, if vomiting occurs within four to five hours after taking the medication, it may affect its efficacy. It is recommended to consult a healthcare ...

Dr. Tian Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
It may affect the efficacy.

Effects of Pre-Exposure Medication on Vomiting: Key Concerns and Solutions

Hello, doctor: I usually take the emergency contraceptive pill, Ella (Ulipristal Acetate), around 9-10 PM. At around 2 AM, I felt hungry and ate noodles and seaweed. Later, I felt discomfort in my stomach and took an antacid, but after a while, around 2:30 AM, I experienced vomit...

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. The contraceptive pill remains effective, and there is no need to take an additional dose. 2. It should still provide contraceptive protection as long as the pill is taken consistently, so there is no need to use condoms as an extra precaution. Sincerely, Dr. Li-Cheng Lu, Taoy...