Emergency Contraception: Your Questions Answered - Obstetrics and Gynecology

Share to:

Taking emergency contraception?


Hello, doctor.
I would like to inquire about my menstrual cycle, which was from February 28 to March 5 and from March 29 to April 4.
On April 11, I noticed a bit of sticky discharge, but it didn't seem like ovulation.
I had sexual intercourse on April 16, during which there was a bit of pink spotting.
Afterward, I discovered that the condom had come off inside (with ejaculation).
I later removed it with my hand around 10:30, and at 11:00, I took a 1.5 mg dose of Plan B (emergency contraceptive pill) and continued taking the chewable tablet until the morning of Friday, April 21.
On April 17 and 18, I noticed what seemed like some discharge, possibly indicating ovulation.
On April 25, I took a pregnancy test in the morning, which showed one line.
My menstrual cycle is usually quite regular, and I was expecting my period on April 27, but as of today, there has been no sign.
I have noticed some discharge resembling leukorrhea in the past few days.
I would like to ask the doctor if I should wait a bit longer.

N, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/04/28

Dr. Huang Yuande reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


You can wait a few days to take the test; generally, it can be detected about 2 to 3 weeks after fertilization.

Reply Date: 2023/04/28

More Info


Emergency contraception (EC) is a crucial topic for many individuals who may find themselves in situations where they need to prevent an unintended pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. Based on your description, it seems you have a good understanding of your menstrual cycle and the events that transpired, which is an important first step in assessing your situation.

From what you’ve shared, your menstrual cycle appears to be regular, with your last period occurring from February 28 to March 5 and the next from March 29 to April 4. You mentioned having sexual intercourse on April 16, during which the condom broke, and you subsequently took emergency contraception (Plan B, or in your case, the "韻婷錠" which contains 1.5 mg of levonorgestrel) shortly after.

Emergency contraception is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours, but it can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after. The sooner you take it, the better the chances of preventing ovulation and, consequently, pregnancy. Since you took the emergency contraceptive within an hour of the incident, you maximized your chances of preventing pregnancy.

Regarding your menstrual cycle, it’s important to note that taking emergency contraception can cause some temporary changes in your menstrual cycle. This can include delays in your next period, changes in flow, or even spotting. Given that your expected period was due on April 27 and you are now experiencing some discharge that resembles cervical mucus, it’s possible that your body is still adjusting after taking the emergency contraceptive.

The fact that you took the emergency contraception and are now experiencing some discharge could indicate that your body is responding to the hormonal changes. It’s not uncommon for individuals to experience a delay in their period after taking EC, and it can take some time for your cycle to return to its regular rhythm.

If you have taken a pregnancy test on April 25 and it showed a negative result, that is a good sign, especially if it was taken after your expected ovulation window. However, if your period does not arrive within a week of its expected date, it would be advisable to take another pregnancy test to confirm the result.
In the meantime, it’s essential to monitor your body and any symptoms you may experience. If you notice any unusual symptoms, such as severe abdominal pain, heavy bleeding, or any other concerning signs, it would be prudent to seek medical attention.
In summary, it’s reasonable to wait a few more days to see if your period arrives, given that emergency contraception can cause delays. If your period does not come within a week of its expected date, consider taking another pregnancy test. If you have any further concerns or if your symptoms change, do not hesitate to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Emergency Contraception: Key Questions Answered

Hello Doctor, I would like to ask the following questions regarding tomorrow, June 12 (the ovulation period): 1. If I take emergency contraception, will it reduce the chances of pregnancy? 2. What is the likelihood of becoming pregnant? 3. Can I take pre-conception pills when my ...


Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. If I take emergency contraception tomorrow (June 12, during the fertile period), will it reduce the chances of pregnancy? Answer: Have you had any sexual intercourse since then? 2. Is the chance of pregnancy high? Answer: Have you had any sexual intercourse since then? 3. ...

[Read More] Understanding Emergency Contraception: Key Questions Answered


Understanding Emergency Contraception: What You Need to Know

Doctor, I would like to ask about my recent experience with my girlfriend. We engaged in sexual activity, but there was no ejaculation inside or outside. However, it was my first time without a condom, and I later remembered there was pre-ejaculate fluid. I bought emergency contr...


Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Currently, contraceptive pills are still prescription medications, so please consult a physician for an examination before taking them.

[Read More] Understanding Emergency Contraception: What You Need to Know


Understanding Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Usage and Side Effects

Hello: I would like to inquire about the following: 1. Are there any side effects associated with the use of emergency contraception (the morning-after pill)? (I have found mostly negative reviews about its use online and in books.) 2. How long should one wait before using emerge...


Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, it is best to use contraception before engaging in sexual activity. Emergency contraception is a remedial method with an effectiveness rate of about 90%, but it can sometimes cause irregular bleeding. Therefore, preemptive contraception is preferable. As for when to take i...

[Read More] Understanding Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Usage and Side Effects


Understanding Emergency Contraception: Your Questions Answered

Hello! I would like to ask you about emergency contraception - specifically, the Yuting pill. My period started on August 10, and on the evening of August 16, I had unprotected intercourse with my boyfriend. Concerned that it might be during my ovulation period within 12 hours, I...


Dr. Huang Jianxun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
All methods of avoidance do not guarantee 100% effectiveness. Please take a pregnancy test if your period does not arrive as expected. Emergency contraception should not be taken casually, as it can have adverse effects on your health. Consider whether you have passed the fertile...

[Read More] Understanding Emergency Contraception: Your Questions Answered


Related FAQ

Emergency Contraceptive Pill

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Contraception

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Abortion Pill

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Medication To Induce Menstruation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Medication Consultation

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Vaccination

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Ecp

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Condom

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Abortion

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Intrauterine Drug Delivery System

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)