Can I Get Pregnant After Using Emergency Contraception?

Will I get pregnant?

Hello, doctor.
My menstrual period usually arrives around the 15th of each month.
I had intercourse with my boyfriend on February 1st, and we used a condom throughout.
However, I still felt anxious, so I purchased emergency contraception and took it about thirty hours later.
I experienced some bleeding from February 11th to February 14th.
I'm not sure if that was my menstrual period, as the flow was lighter than usual and the duration was shorter.
Could this be due to the emergency contraception? Is there a possibility that I could be pregnant?

Noy, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/02/25

Dr. Lin Wenbin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

It is not possible to be certain that you will not become pregnant, so please take a pregnancy test.
If necessary, visit a gynecologist for further examination.

Reply Date: 2015/02/25

More Info

Emergency contraception (EC) is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure, such as a broken condom. The most common form of emergency contraception is the pill, which contains hormones that can delay ovulation, prevent fertilization, or inhibit implantation of a fertilized egg.
In your case, you mentioned that you had unprotected intercourse on February 1st and took emergency contraception approximately 30 hours later. This timing is crucial because EC is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours, although some types can be effective up to 5 days later. Since you took the pill within this timeframe, you significantly reduced your risk of becoming pregnant.

The bleeding you experienced from February 11th to February 14th may be a side effect of the emergency contraception. It is not uncommon for women to experience changes in their menstrual cycle after taking EC. This can include lighter bleeding, spotting, or even a shorter duration of the period. These changes are typically due to the hormonal effects of the medication and do not necessarily indicate pregnancy.

To address your concern about the possibility of pregnancy: while no contraceptive method is 100% effective, the likelihood of becoming pregnant after taking emergency contraception is low, especially since you used a condom during intercourse. If you are still concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, you can take a home pregnancy test about a week after your expected period. If your period is late or if you have any other symptoms of pregnancy, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, based on the information provided, it is unlikely that you are pregnant, especially since you took emergency contraception promptly after unprotected intercourse. The changes in your menstrual cycle are likely due to the hormonal effects of the emergency contraception. However, if you have any lingering concerns or if your symptoms change, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and reassurance.

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