Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills?

Can you get pregnant after having post-coital bleeding?

I would like to ask the doctor, I took the emergency contraceptive pill on April 5th, and I had bleeding on April 10th.
Does this mean that I will not be pregnant?

Xiao Xin, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2024/04/10

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the effects of emergency contraception on menstruation can vary; it may cause your period to come earlier or later.
Its contraceptive effectiveness is not 100%, with a failure rate of about 3%.
However, it is still considered a good backup option.
If you are unsure whether the bleeding is a true menstrual period, it is advisable to check for pregnancy.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2024/04/10

More Info

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), commonly known as "morning-after pills," are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. They are most effective when taken as soon as possible after the event, ideally within 72 to 120 hours, depending on the type of pill used. The two main types of ECPs are levonorgestrel (Plan B One-Step) and ulipristal acetate (ella).
When you took the emergency contraceptive pill on April 5th, it was intended to prevent ovulation or fertilization of an egg. If you experienced bleeding on April 10th, it could be a sign that the ECP was effective. This bleeding is often referred to as "withdrawal bleeding," which can occur as a result of the hormonal changes induced by the pill. However, it is important to note that withdrawal bleeding does not guarantee that pregnancy has been prevented.

The effectiveness of ECPs is high, but not absolute. Studies suggest that ECPs can reduce the risk of pregnancy by up to 89% when taken within the recommended time frame. However, factors such as the timing of your menstrual cycle, the timing of ovulation, and the specific type of ECP taken can influence the outcome. If ovulation had already occurred before taking the ECP, the likelihood of preventing pregnancy decreases.

If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy despite taking the ECP and experiencing withdrawal bleeding, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test. Most home pregnancy tests are accurate if taken at least one week after the expected date of your next period. If your period is delayed beyond this time frame, or if you have any symptoms of pregnancy, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, while the occurrence of withdrawal bleeding after taking an emergency contraceptive pill is a positive sign that the pill may have worked, it does not definitively confirm that you are not pregnant. If you have any doubts or concerns, taking a pregnancy test or consulting with a healthcare professional is the best course of action to ensure your reproductive health and peace of mind.

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