Can Emergency Contraceptive Pills Be Taken on Day Two of Menstruation?

Emergency contraceptive pill

Can emergency contraceptive pills be taken on the second day of menstruation, and is there a difference in effectiveness compared to taking them on the fifth day?

mei, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/07/24

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the timing of taking emergency contraception is only related to the time after intercourse and not to which day of the menstrual cycle it is.
It's important to note that the effectiveness of emergency contraception is not 100%, with a failure rate of about 3%.
However, it is still considered a method of last resort.
If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to check for pregnancy.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Chang

Reply Date: 2015/07/24

More Info

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), commonly known as the "morning-after pill," are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. The effectiveness of these pills is highest when taken as soon as possible after the event, ideally within 72 hours, but some formulations can be effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after intercourse.

To address your question about taking ECPs on the second day of menstruation, it is important to understand how these pills work. ECPs primarily function by delaying ovulation, preventing fertilization, or inhibiting implantation of a fertilized egg. If you are already on your period, it indicates that ovulation has already occurred in the previous cycle, and the likelihood of becoming pregnant is significantly reduced. Therefore, taking ECPs during menstruation is generally unnecessary unless there was unprotected intercourse just before your period started.

Regarding the timing of taking ECPs, while taking them on the second day of menstruation is not harmful, it may not provide any additional benefit compared to taking them later in the cycle if you have unprotected intercourse again. The efficacy of ECPs does not significantly change based on whether they are taken on the second day of menstruation versus the fifth day after unprotected intercourse. However, the sooner you take them after the event, the better the chances of preventing pregnancy.

It is also worth noting that ECPs are not intended for regular contraceptive use and should not replace regular contraceptive methods. If you find yourself needing ECPs frequently, it may be beneficial to discuss long-term contraceptive options with a healthcare provider.

In summary, while you can take emergency contraceptive pills on the second day of menstruation, it is generally not necessary unless you had unprotected intercourse shortly before your period. The timing of taking ECPs is crucial, and taking them as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse maximizes their effectiveness. If you have any further questions or concerns about your contraceptive options, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare professional who can provide personalized guidance based on your health history and needs.

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