Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Emergency Contraceptive? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

Share to:

Could I get pregnant?


I had unprotected intercourse on October 18, during which my boyfriend ejaculated inside me.
I took emergency contraception afterward.
My period then came on October 28.
During this time, I had intercourse again, and my boyfriend ejaculated inside me again, but both times were during my menstrual period.
Is there a chance I could be pregnant?

Danxin de ren, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2005/11/07

Dr. Dai Qihan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


If October 28 is confirmed as the start of your menstrual period, it indicates that implantation did not occur, meaning you are not pregnant.
If you still have concerns, you can visit the clinic for an examination.

Reply Date: 2005/11/07

More Info


When it comes to the question of whether you can get pregnant after taking emergency contraception, it’s important to understand how these medications work and the timing of your menstrual cycle. Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure, such as a broken condom. They are most effective when taken as soon as possible after the incident, ideally within 72 to 120 hours, depending on the type of pill.

In your case, you mentioned having unprotected sex on October 18 and taking the emergency contraceptive pill afterward. If you took the pill within the recommended time frame, it would have significantly reduced your chances of becoming pregnant from that encounter. The fact that you got your period on October 28 is a good sign, as it indicates that your body is functioning normally and that the emergency contraceptive likely worked.
However, you also mentioned having unprotected sex again during your menstrual cycle. It’s important to note that while menstrual bleeding can sometimes be mistaken for a sign of non-fertility, it does not guarantee that you cannot conceive. Sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for up to five days, and if you ovulate shortly after your period, there is a possibility of becoming pregnant from that subsequent encounter.

To summarize, if you took the emergency contraceptive pill correctly after the first instance of unprotected sex, it should have prevented pregnancy from that encounter. However, the second instance of unprotected sex during your menstrual cycle could still pose a risk of pregnancy, depending on your ovulation timing.
If you are concerned about the possibility of being pregnant, the best course of action is to take a home pregnancy test after a missed period or consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.
Regarding your concerns about drinking alcohol during the early stages of pregnancy, if you are indeed pregnant, it is advisable to avoid alcohol altogether. Alcohol consumption during pregnancy can lead to fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs), which can cause a range of physical, behavioral, and learning problems in the child. If you have consumed alcohol unknowingly during the early weeks of pregnancy, it is essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider, who can provide guidance and support.

In conclusion, while emergency contraception is effective, it is not foolproof, and understanding your menstrual cycle and ovulation is crucial in assessing your risk of pregnancy. If you have further questions or concerns, please consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and support.

Similar Q&A

Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills?

The likelihood of becoming pregnant after taking emergency contraception and then engaging in unprotected intercourse three hours later, without ejaculation, is generally low. Emergency contraceptive pills are designed to prevent ovulation or fertilization if taken within a speci...


Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy are low, and you shouldn't rely on the safe period. It's better to take preventive measures before engaging in sexual activity. If your period is more than a week late, it's advisable to see a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills?


Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Emergency Contraceptive?

If the emergency contraceptive pill (Plan B) was taken within 24 hours after unprotected intercourse (with ejaculation occurring 1500 the previous day and the pill taken at 1430 the following day), the likelihood of pregnancy is significantly reduced. However, no emergency contra...


Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
The emergency contraceptive pill was taken one dose of "Yuzhu" close to 24 hours after unprotected intercourse (the previous day at 3:00 PM). Will this result in pregnancy? If so, what should I do? Answer: The likelihood of pregnancy is low in this case.

[Read More] Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Emergency Contraceptive?


Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Emergency Contraceptive?

Hello doctor, I took the emergency contraceptive pill for the first time on the twenty-first day of my cycle and had unprotected intercourse. After a seven-day break, I had unprotected intercourse again, totaling two times. Is there a chance I could be pregnant? Thank you, doctor...


Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, taking emergency contraception will prevent pregnancy. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Emergency Contraceptive?


Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills?

On August 25, menstruation just ended, and on August 28, unprotected intercourse occurred after menstruation. The emergency contraceptive pill was taken afterward. Is there a possibility of pregnancy in this situation?


Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the chances of pregnancy are low, but it is best to take preventive measures beforehand. Do not rely on the safe period. If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to see a gynecologist. Wishing you good health.

[Read More] Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills?


Related FAQ

Emergency Contraceptive Pill

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Can I Get Pregnant?

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Contraception

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Want To Get Pregnant

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Abortion Pill

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Can I Get Pregnant?

(Urology)

Am I Pregnant?

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Post-Ectopic Pregnancy Surgery

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

Induced Abortion

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)

High-Risk Pregnancy

(Obstetrics and Gynecology)