Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Effectiveness and Side Effects Explained

Emergency contraceptive pills for the ovulation period?

The scheduled ovulation date is July 16, and intercourse occurred on July 18 with ejaculation, followed by taking an emergency contraceptive pill one hour later.
What is the likelihood of pregnancy in this scenario? Additionally, is it normal to experience diarrhea after taking the emergency contraceptive pill?

fa wen ren, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/07/26

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the effectiveness of emergency contraceptive pills is not 100%, with a failure rate of about 3%.
It is recommended to check for pregnancy if your period is more than a week late.
If diarrhea symptoms persist or worsen, please consult a physician for evaluation and treatment.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Chang

Reply Date: 2023/07/26

More Info

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), commonly referred to as "morning-after pills," are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse or contraceptive failure. The effectiveness of ECPs depends on several factors, including the timing of administration relative to ovulation and the type of ECP used.

In your case, you mentioned that you had unprotected intercourse on July 16, with your expected ovulation date being July 18. You took the emergency contraceptive pill within one hour after intercourse. This timing is crucial because ECPs are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, ideally within 72 hours, but some types can be effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after intercourse. The sooner you take the pill, the higher the likelihood of preventing ovulation and, consequently, pregnancy.

Regarding the effectiveness of ECPs, studies have shown that they can reduce the risk of pregnancy by up to 89% when taken within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. However, their effectiveness diminishes the longer you wait. Since you took the pill shortly after intercourse, your chances of preventing pregnancy are significantly increased.

As for the side effects of ECPs, they can include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, headache, dizziness, breast tenderness, and changes in your menstrual cycle. One common side effect is gastrointestinal upset, which can manifest as diarrhea. If you are experiencing diarrhea after taking the emergency contraceptive pill, it is not uncommon and can be a side effect of the medication. However, if the diarrhea is severe or persistent, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider, as it could lead to dehydration or indicate another underlying issue.

It is also important to note that while ECPs are effective in preventing pregnancy, they do not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you have concerns about STIs, consider getting tested or discussing preventive measures with your healthcare provider.

In summary, based on the timing of your emergency contraceptive pill intake and the nature of your sexual activity, your chances of becoming pregnant are relatively low. Experiencing diarrhea after taking the pill can be a normal side effect, but if it continues or worsens, seeking medical advice is recommended. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and to address any concerns you may have regarding your reproductive health.

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I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that.

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