Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Timing and Effectiveness

Hello, doctor. I would like to inquire about emergency contraceptive pills?

Hello doctor, I usually start taking the oral contraceptive pill on the fifth day of my period.
Last month, I just completed a year of use, so I took a break for a month.
However, this month I started taking it again on the fifth day of my period.
Do I need to wait seven days before having unprotected sex again, or is it not necessary this time? Thank you.

Ms. Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/20

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, taking contraceptive pills is effective for birth control.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/06/20

More Info

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are a crucial option for preventing unintended pregnancies after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. Understanding their timing and effectiveness is essential for anyone considering their use.

Firstly, it's important to clarify the difference between emergency contraceptive pills and regular contraceptive pills. ECPs are designed for use after unprotected sex, while regular contraceptive pills are taken daily to prevent ovulation. The effectiveness of ECPs is highest when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours, although some types can be effective up to 5 days later.

In your case, you mentioned that you started taking regular contraceptive pills on the fifth day of your menstrual cycle. When starting a new pack of contraceptive pills, it is generally recommended to wait seven days before relying on them for contraception if you start taking them after your period. This waiting period allows the hormones in the pills to build up in your system and effectively prevent ovulation. However, if you start taking the pills during the first five days of your menstrual cycle, they can be effective immediately, as long as you have not had unprotected intercourse during that time.

Since you mentioned that you took a break from the pills for a month and then resumed taking them on the fifth day of your period, the same rules apply. If you started the new pack on the fifth day of your cycle, you should be protected from pregnancy immediately, provided you have been consistent with your pill-taking and have not missed any doses. However, if you had unprotected intercourse during the break, it's advisable to consult with your healthcare provider about the need for additional contraception or emergency contraception.

It's also worth noting that while ECPs are effective, they are not intended for regular use as a primary contraceptive method. They can cause side effects such as nausea, fatigue, and changes in your menstrual cycle. If you find yourself needing to use ECPs frequently, it may be worth discussing long-term contraceptive options with your healthcare provider.

In summary, if you started taking your contraceptive pills on the fifth day of your menstrual cycle and have taken them consistently, you should be protected from pregnancy without needing to wait an additional seven days. However, if you have any doubts or specific concerns about your situation, it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can provide guidance based on your health history and any other medications you may be taking.

Similar Q&A

Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Timing and Effectiveness Explained

When purchasing emergency contraceptive pills, the pharmacy staff mentioned that taking them on the second day of menstruation is also acceptable. Is the contraceptive effectiveness the same as taking them on the fifth day?

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the effectiveness of emergency contraceptive pills is not related to the number of days after intercourse, but rather to the timing of ingestion after the event. When taken within 72 hours after intercourse, the effectiveness is approximately 97%. However, it is not 100%, ...

Effectiveness of Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Timing and Dosage Explained

Emergency contraceptive pills prescribed by a doctor typically consist of two doses. The first dose should be taken immediately, and the second dose should be taken approximately 18 hours later. If taken as directed, the emergency contraception should still be effective.

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, based on your method of consumption, there should still be about a 90% effectiveness in contraception. However, I would like to remind you that if your period is more than a week late, you should check for pregnancy. Thank you! Wishing you safety and health, Dr. Chang.

Effectiveness of Emergency Contraceptive Pills After Intercourse

On November 8th, I had intercourse with my boyfriend twice, but I took the emergency contraceptive pill after the first time. Is that effective?

Dr. Huang Jianxun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Dear Xiao Yuyu: In principle, emergency contraceptive pills are effective within 72 hours after intercourse. Wishing you safety and health. Sincerely, Dr. Huang Jianxun, Director of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Understanding Emergency Contraception: Timing and Effectiveness Explained

If I take the "morning-after pill" 24 hours after having sexual intercourse, is it still effective? Additionally, does Duoluton have any emergency contraceptive effects? Thank you!

Dr. Jian Hongmou reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
1. The "emergency contraceptive pill" is effective within 72 hours, but the sooner it is taken, the higher the success rate! 2. Duoluton contains progesterone and female hormones, and it does not have a significant effect on contraception!