Effectiveness and Side Effects of Emergency Contraceptive Pills

Issues related to emergency contraception?

Hello, Dr.
Chang.
My girlfriend's menstrual periods were on June 6, July 7, and August 8.
The next expected period is September 8.
However, we had intercourse on August 31 at 5 PM, and afterward, we discovered that the condom had broken.
I would like to know if taking emergency contraception in the afternoon of September 1 would still be effective.
How long do the side effects typically last? What precautions can be taken to minimize side effects? Thank you, Dr.
Chang!

Lü Lü, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/31

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the effectiveness of emergency contraceptive pills taken within three days is approximately 97%, but it is not 100%, with a failure rate of about 3%.
However, it is still considered a good remedial option.
The impact of emergency contraceptive pills on menstruation can vary; it may cause the period to arrive earlier or later, and there can be temporary side effects related to the gastrointestinal and reproductive systems.
It is recommended to check for pregnancy if menstruation is more than a week late.
Thank you, and wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2015/08/31

More Info

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure, such as a broken condom. In your case, since you had unprotected sex on August 31 and took the emergency contraceptive pill on September 1, you are within the effective time frame for these medications. Most emergency contraceptive pills, such as those containing levonorgestrel (Plan B) or ulipristal acetate (Ella), are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours for levonorgestrel and up to 120 hours for ulipristal acetate.

Regarding the effectiveness of the emergency contraceptive pill you took, it is important to note that while ECPs are effective, they are not 100% guaranteed to prevent pregnancy. The sooner you take the pill after unprotected intercourse, the higher the likelihood of preventing pregnancy. Since you took the pill the day after the incident, you have maximized your chances of effectiveness.

As for side effects, ECPs can cause a range of symptoms, including nausea, fatigue, headache, dizziness, breast tenderness, and changes in your menstrual cycle. These side effects are generally mild and temporary. Most women experience side effects for a few days after taking the pill, but they typically resolve within a week. If you experience severe side effects or if your menstrual period is more than a week late after taking the ECP, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test and consult a healthcare provider.

To minimize side effects, here are a few tips:
1. Take with Food: Taking the pill with food can help reduce nausea, which is a common side effect.

2. Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to help your body process the medication.

3. Rest: If you feel fatigued or dizzy, make sure to rest and avoid strenuous activities.

4. Avoid Alcohol: Alcohol can exacerbate side effects like dizziness and nausea, so it’s best to avoid it after taking the pill.

It’s also important to remember that while ECPs are a reliable option for preventing pregnancy after unprotected intercourse, they should not be used as a regular form of contraception. Regular contraceptive methods, such as birth control pills, condoms, or intrauterine devices (IUDs), are more effective for ongoing pregnancy prevention.

Lastly, if you have any concerns about your menstrual cycle or if you experience any unusual symptoms after taking the emergency contraceptive pill, it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and support.

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