Can I Get Pregnant After Taking Emergency Contraception?

Is it possible to get pregnant?

On December 29, my menstrual period started.
On January 22, I had unprotected intercourse and took emergency contraception.
However, I drank alcohol that night and vomited in the morning.
Because I was worried, I took another dose of emergency contraception on January 25.
Is there still a possibility of pregnancy or an ectopic pregnancy? I have a history of ectopic pregnancy.

Niming, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/01/26

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the effectiveness of emergency contraception is not 100%, with a failure rate of about 3%.
If contraception fails, there is also a possibility of an ectopic pregnancy.
It is recommended to check for pregnancy if your period is more than a week late.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Chang

Reply Date: 2024/01/26

More Info

Emergency contraception (EC) is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. The most common forms of emergency contraception include pills containing levonorgestrel (Plan B) or ulipristal acetate (Ella). These medications work primarily by delaying ovulation, preventing fertilization, or inhibiting implantation of a fertilized egg. However, they are not 100% effective, and their efficacy diminishes the longer you wait to take them after unprotected intercourse.

In your case, you mentioned that you had unprotected intercourse on January 22 and took emergency contraception shortly thereafter. You also consumed alcohol that night and experienced vomiting the next morning. It’s important to note that if you vomit within two hours of taking the emergency contraception pill, it may not be fully absorbed, which could reduce its effectiveness. If you took a second dose of emergency contraception on January 25, this could provide an additional layer of protection, but again, it is not guaranteed.

Regarding the possibility of pregnancy, it is still possible to conceive even after taking emergency contraception, especially if ovulation has already occurred before you took the pills. If you have a history of ectopic pregnancy, it’s essential to monitor your symptoms closely. Ectopic pregnancies occur when a fertilized egg implants outside the uterus, often in the fallopian tubes, and can be life-threatening if not treated promptly. Symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy may include sharp pelvic pain, vaginal bleeding, or gastrointestinal symptoms.

If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy or ectopic pregnancy, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test a week after your expected period. If the test is positive or if you experience any concerning symptoms, you should seek medical attention immediately. A healthcare provider can perform a blood test and an ultrasound to determine if you are pregnant and if the pregnancy is intrauterine or ectopic.

In summary, while emergency contraception can significantly reduce the risk of pregnancy after unprotected intercourse, it is not foolproof. Given your history of ectopic pregnancy, it is crucial to remain vigilant about any symptoms and to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and care. If you have any further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to a medical professional for guidance.

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