Pregnancy Risks After Emergency Contraceptive Use - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Is the probability high?


I got my period on July 23.
I had sexual intercourse on August 4, and I took the emergency contraceptive pill on August 5.
I used a condom partway through, and the ejaculation was inside the condom.
I went for a menstrual regulation in August, and my period arrived on August 21, which was quite heavy.
How can I determine if the amount is considered a false period? What is the likelihood of pregnancy in this situation? I visited a gynecologist yesterday and had an ultrasound, but the doctor did not find anything (I didn’t mention to the doctor that I wanted to check for pregnancy).
I am very worried because I sometimes feel sharp pains near my abdomen.
If I took the emergency contraceptive pill, should I not feel anything at all? Does that mean it was ineffective?

K, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/09/02

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello: If you are concerned that the bleeding on August 21st is not menstrual but rather early pregnancy bleeding, please come in for an examination.
We will perform a pregnancy test and an ultrasound to determine the situation.
Hsinchu City Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology.

Reply Date: 2006/09/02

More Info


When it comes to understanding the risks associated with pregnancy after using emergency contraceptives, it's essential to consider several factors, including the timing of intercourse, the type of emergency contraceptive used, and the subsequent menstrual cycle.

Emergency contraceptives, such as Levonorgestrel (often found in pills like Plan B), are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. They work primarily by delaying ovulation, which means that if you take the pill before ovulation occurs, it can effectively prevent the sperm from fertilizing an egg. However, if ovulation has already occurred, the effectiveness of the emergency contraceptive diminishes significantly.

In your case, you mentioned that you had your period on July 23 and had unprotected intercourse on August 4, taking the emergency contraceptive the following day. If your menstrual cycle is regular, ovulation typically occurs around the midpoint of your cycle, which would be approximately 14 days after the start of your last period. Given that you had intercourse shortly before taking the emergency contraceptive, it is possible that ovulation had not yet occurred, which would mean the pill could still be effective.

You also noted that you experienced a menstrual-like bleeding on August 21, which could be a sign that the emergency contraceptive worked. However, distinguishing between a normal period and "false" or "withdrawal" bleeding can be tricky. Withdrawal bleeding can occur after taking hormonal contraceptives, including emergency contraceptives, and may resemble a regular period but can be lighter or shorter in duration.

As for the concerns about pregnancy, if you had a significant amount of bleeding that resembled your normal menstrual flow, the likelihood of being pregnant is relatively low. However, if you are still experiencing symptoms such as abdominal pain or discomfort, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They can perform a pregnancy test and possibly an ultrasound to confirm whether or not you are pregnant.

It's also important to note that while emergency contraceptives are generally safe, they can cause side effects, including nausea, fatigue, and changes in your menstrual cycle. If you continue to have concerns about your symptoms or the possibility of pregnancy, it is crucial to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and guidance.

In summary, while the use of emergency contraception significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy when taken correctly, it is not 100% effective. If you have had a normal menstrual period following the use of the emergency contraceptive, the chances of being pregnant are low. However, if you have ongoing concerns or symptoms, seeking medical advice is the best course of action.

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