Can You Get Pregnant After Unprotected Sex? Expert Insights

Engaging in sexual intercourse after taking emergency contraception?

Doctor, I had unprotected sexual intercourse with a male on the morning of April 12th, and I took emergency contraception within 24 hours.
Later that evening, I had unprotected sex again, also without ejaculation.
Is there a possibility of pregnancy?

Miss Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/06/26

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the effectiveness of emergency contraception remains valid after a single or multiple instances of sexual intercourse, provided that all sexual acts occurred within 72 hours prior to taking the medication.
It is advisable to check for pregnancy if menstruation has not occurred for over a week.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2023/06/26

More Info

When it comes to the question of whether you can get pregnant after unprotected sex, the answer is yes, there is a possibility of pregnancy. Unprotected sexual intercourse, particularly during a woman's fertile window, significantly increases the chances of conception.
In your case, you mentioned having unprotected sex on April 12th, and you took emergency contraception (EC) within 24 hours. Emergency contraception is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex, and it is most effective when taken as soon as possible. The effectiveness of EC can vary depending on the timing of administration relative to ovulation. If you took the pill within 24 hours, it is likely to be effective, but it is not 100% guaranteed.

The mechanism of action for emergency contraception primarily involves delaying ovulation. If ovulation has already occurred, EC may not be effective in preventing pregnancy. Therefore, if you had unprotected sex close to the time of ovulation, there is still a risk of pregnancy, even after taking EC.

Additionally, you mentioned having another instance of unprotected sex later that same day. This further complicates the situation, as it increases the likelihood of sperm being present when ovulation occurs. Sperm can live inside a woman's reproductive tract for up to five days, so if ovulation occurs during that time, there is a chance for fertilization to take place.

If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test if your period is late. Most home pregnancy tests are reliable and can detect pregnancy as early as the first day of a missed period. If you want to be certain, you can also consult with a healthcare provider for a blood test, which can detect pregnancy earlier than a home test.

In summary, while taking emergency contraception significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy after unprotected sex, it does not eliminate it entirely. Given the timing of your sexual encounters and the use of EC, it is essential to monitor your menstrual cycle and consider taking a pregnancy test if your period does not arrive as expected. If you have further concerns or questions about your reproductive health, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice and support.

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