Emergency Contraception: Your Questions Answered - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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Emergency contraception is a crucial topic for anyone who is sexually active and wants to prevent unintended pregnancies. It’s essential to understand how it works, the types available, and the timing of use.

From your question, it appears that you had your menstrual period on April 28 and engaged in sexual intercourse on May 6 and May 8. You then took Primperan (metoclopramide) on May 10. It’s important to clarify that Primperan is not an emergency contraceptive. It is primarily used to treat nausea and vomiting and to facilitate gastric emptying. If your doctor mentioned it as a form of emergency contraception, there may have been a misunderstanding, as it does not have contraceptive properties.

The most common forms of emergency contraception are:
1. Levonorgestrel (Plan B One-Step): This is a single-dose pill that should be taken within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected intercourse. It is more effective the sooner it is taken after the event.

2. Ulipristal Acetate (Ella): This is another emergency contraceptive pill that can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected intercourse. It is also more effective the sooner it is taken.

3. Copper Intrauterine Device (IUD): This can be used as emergency contraception if inserted by a healthcare provider within 5 days after unprotected intercourse. It is the most effective form of emergency contraception.

Given your timeline, if you did not take an emergency contraceptive pill within the recommended time frame after your sexual encounters, there is a possibility of pregnancy. The effectiveness of emergency contraception decreases significantly the longer you wait after unprotected intercourse.

If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test if your next period is late or to consult with a healthcare provider for further guidance. They can provide you with the appropriate tests and discuss your options moving forward.

In summary, it is crucial to use the correct emergency contraceptive methods and to understand their timing and effectiveness. If you have further questions or concerns about your reproductive health, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional who can provide personalized advice and support.