the Effectiveness of Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Your Questions Answered

Q: the Effectiveness of Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Your Questions Answered

Hello： If this is your first time taking Yasmin, the recommended method is to start taking it within 5 days of the onset of your menstrual period. <br>You should take one pill at the same time every day for 3 weeks, followed by a 7-day break during which you will have your next p

Questions about the first pack of oral contraceptives?

I started my menstrual bleeding on June 11, but I felt that my period was about to start on June 10.
On the fifth day (June 15), I began taking the medication "Yueji," but I realized that June 10 seemed to be the first day of my period, so I took an extra pill (two pills total on June 15, the first day of taking the medication).
I would like to know if starting the medication this way still has the effects of regulating my menstrual cycle and providing contraception, or if the subsequent pills are no longer meaningful.
Thank you.

Xiao Ting, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/16

Dr. Huang Wanyu reply Pharmacology

Hello: If this is your first time taking Yasmin, the recommended method is to start taking it within 5 days of the onset of your menstrual period.
You should take one pill at the same time every day for 3 weeks, followed by a 7-day break during which you will have your next period.
If you wish to continue using Yasmin, you should start the next pack on the 8th day (regardless of whether your period has ended), continue taking it for 3 weeks, and then take a 1-week break to maintain its effectiveness.
Since June 11 is the first day of your current menstrual period, June 15 is the 5th day, which is still within the recommended usage timeframe.
You can continue to complete this pack to achieve menstrual regulation and contraceptive effects.
Please note that there is approximately a 1% failure rate with oral contraceptives each year.
If you experience any discomfort while taking the medication, please contact your gynecologist.
Wishing you health and well-being.

Reply Date: 2023/06/16

More Info

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. Understanding their effectiveness and proper usage is crucial for ensuring their intended purpose.
In your case, you mentioned that your menstrual bleeding began on June 11, and you started taking the emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) on June 15. You also noted that you took two pills on the first day of use, which raises some important considerations regarding the timing and method of administration.

Firstly, ECPs are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse. They can be taken up to 72 hours (or in some cases, up to 120 hours) after the event, depending on the specific type of ECP used. The sooner they are taken, the higher the likelihood of preventing ovulation, which is the primary mechanism by which they work.

Regarding your situation, if you believe that June 10 was the first day of your menstrual cycle, taking the ECP on June 15 may still be effective, but it is essential to understand that the effectiveness can be influenced by where you are in your menstrual cycle. If ovulation has already occurred, the ECP may not be able to prevent pregnancy. However, since you started taking the pill within a few days of potential ovulation, there is still a chance that it could work.

Taking two pills on the first day of use is generally not recommended unless specifically instructed by a healthcare provider. Most ECPs are designed to be taken as a single dose or in a specific regimen (for example, two doses taken 12 hours apart). Taking more than the recommended dose does not necessarily increase effectiveness and could lead to increased side effects, such as nausea or vomiting.

As for the continuation of the medication, if you have already started the regimen, it is advisable to complete the course as directed. However, if you are concerned about the effectiveness due to the timing of your doses, it would be prudent to consult with a healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific circumstances and may suggest additional contraceptive measures if necessary.

In terms of menstrual regulation, ECPs can sometimes cause changes in your menstrual cycle. You may experience an earlier or later onset of your next period, and the flow may be lighter or heavier than usual. If your period is more than a week late after taking the ECP, it is recommended to take a pregnancy test to confirm whether or not you are pregnant.

In summary, while your use of the ECP may still have some effectiveness, it is crucial to follow the recommended guidelines for dosage and timing. If you have any doubts or experience unusual symptoms, seeking medical advice is always the best course of action. Remember, ECPs are not intended for regular contraceptive use and should be used as a backup method. For ongoing contraception, consider discussing long-term options with your healthcare provider.

Similar Q&A

Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Effectiveness and Side Effects Explained

Hello doctor: A few days ago, I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend, and he accidentally ejaculated inside me. I've been very worried about getting pregnant, so I asked him to buy me the morning-after pill. However, I'm not sure if it will be effective and if there...

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: The emergency contraceptive pill has over 90% effectiveness in preventing pregnancy and may affect the timing of the next menstrual period. Side effects are minimal. Dr. Cheng Jin-He, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hsinchu Hospital.

Effectiveness of Emergency Contraceptive Pills During Fertile Window

Taking emergency contraception (the morning-after pill) within one hour after unprotected intercourse during the fertile window does not reduce its effectiveness. Emergency contraception is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex, and its efficacy is highest when take...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the effectiveness of emergency contraceptive pills is about 90%. It is best to use preventive measures beforehand. Wishing you good health.

Understanding Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Effectiveness and Risks

Hello Dr. Jan: I would like to ask, after taking emergency contraceptive pills, during the waiting period before the next menstrual period, if one continues to have sexual intercourse without using condoms, is there still a certain level of contraceptive effectiveness, and is the...

Dr. Zhan Deqin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
It is still effective, but there is no statistical data available regarding the exact probability. If taken within 72 hours after sexual intercourse, it is approximately 90% effective.

Effectiveness of Pre-Conception Birth Control Pills on Pregnancy Rates

Hello doctor, if I take the morning-after pill and have unprotected intercourse during the safe period, what is the effectiveness rate of contraception? Will it increase the contraceptive effectiveness? Which type of morning-after pill do you recommend?

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, emergency contraceptive pills are effective for contraception and provide peace of mind. You may consider low-dose options. Wishing you good health.