Emergency Contraception: Risks and Effects After Unprotected Sex

Emergency contraceptive pill

Hello, doctor! My last menstrual period started on July 10, and my cycle is usually 32 days.
Yesterday, I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend, and we used a condom, but afterward, we discovered that the condom broke and he ejaculated inside me.
I took the emergency contraceptive pill about an hour later because I am concerned that it might be around my ovulation period.
What is the likelihood of becoming pregnant in this situation? Is it normal that there has been no discharge after taking the pill? Thank you for taking the time to respond, and I appreciate your hard work.
🙏

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2023/08/01

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the effectiveness of emergency contraception is about 95%.
Now that you've taken it, you can only monitor the situation.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2023/08/01

More Info

When it comes to emergency contraception (EC) and the risks associated with unprotected sex, it's essential to understand both the effectiveness of the methods available and the physiological responses that may occur afterward.
In your situation, you had a recent menstrual cycle that started on July 10, with a typical cycle length of 32 days. This means that your next expected period would be around August 11. Engaging in sexual intercourse during your ovulation period (which typically occurs about 14 days before your next period) does increase the risk of pregnancy, especially since the condom broke and there was ejaculation.

You took the emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) within an hour after the incident, which is a critical factor. The sooner you take the ECP after unprotected intercourse, the more effective it is. Most ECPs, such as Plan B or Ella, can reduce the risk of pregnancy by up to 89% if taken within 72 hours, and some studies suggest that taking it within 24 hours can be even more effective. However, it's important to note that ECPs are not 100% effective, and the failure rate can be around 1-3%, depending on various factors, including where you are in your menstrual cycle.

Regarding your question about the absence of discharge after taking the ECP, this is generally normal. Many women do not experience any noticeable side effects after taking the pill, while others may experience mild side effects such as nausea, fatigue, or changes in their menstrual cycle. If you do not experience any discharge, it does not necessarily indicate that the pill is ineffective.
However, it's crucial to monitor your body for any signs of pregnancy. If your period is delayed by more than a week after your expected date, it would be advisable to take a pregnancy test. This test is most accurate when taken after a missed period, as it measures the hormone hCG, which is produced during pregnancy.

In summary, while the risk of pregnancy exists due to the broken condom and subsequent ejaculation, taking the emergency contraceptive pill promptly significantly reduces that risk. The absence of discharge is not a cause for concern, but keep an eye on your menstrual cycle, and consider taking a pregnancy test if your period is late. If you have any further concerns or experience unusual symptoms, do not hesitate to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.

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