Emergency Contraception: Risks and Symptoms Explained

Confusion about emergency contraception?

On the night of November 14, I had intercourse with my girlfriend, using withdrawal method, but my fingers did enter her vagina.
I was concerned about the possibility of sperm on my fingers, especially since it was during her fertile period.
Therefore, in the early hours of November 17, she took an emergency contraceptive pill.
Currently, her period has not arrived (approximately 3-5 days late), and she is experiencing persistent elevated body temperature and abdominal pain.
Is there a possibility of pregnancy, or are these symptoms normal?

Xinji, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/11/21

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

It is not possible to determine pregnancy based on the above symptoms.
If menstruation is delayed, a pregnancy test is still necessary.
Sincerely, Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2015/11/21

More Info

Emergency contraception (EC) is a method used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse or contraceptive failure. In your case, you mentioned that you and your girlfriend had unprotected intercourse, albeit with withdrawal (pull-out method), and that you were concerned about potential sperm exposure due to your fingers possibly coming into contact with semen. You also noted that your girlfriend took an emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) shortly after the incident.

Firstly, it’s important to understand how emergency contraception works. ECPs, such as those containing levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate, are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours, but they can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after. The primary mechanism of action is to delay or inhibit ovulation, preventing fertilization. If ovulation has already occurred, the effectiveness of ECPs decreases significantly.

Now, regarding the symptoms your girlfriend is experiencing—such as elevated body temperature and abdominal pain—these can be common side effects of taking emergency contraception. Hormonal fluctuations caused by the ECP can lead to various symptoms, including:
1. Nausea and Vomiting: Some women may experience nausea after taking the pill, which can also lead to vomiting.

2. Breast Tenderness: Hormonal changes can cause breast tenderness or swelling.

3. Fatigue: Some women report feeling more tired than usual after taking ECPs.

4. Abdominal Pain or Cramps: This can occur as the body reacts to the hormonal changes.

5. Changes in Menstrual Cycle: ECPs can cause your next period to be earlier, later, or heavier than usual.
The fact that her period is due in 3-5 days means that she may experience these symptoms as part of her menstrual cycle, especially after taking the ECP. However, it is also important to note that while ECPs are effective, they are not 100% guaranteed to prevent pregnancy. If her period is delayed by more than a week from the expected date, it would be advisable for her to take a home pregnancy test to confirm whether or not she is pregnant.

In terms of the risk of pregnancy in your situation, the chances are relatively low if the ECP was taken promptly after the incident. However, since you mentioned that it was during her fertile window, there is still a possibility, albeit reduced by the use of emergency contraception.

If she continues to experience significant discomfort or if her symptoms worsen, it would be wise for her to consult a healthcare provider. They can provide further evaluation and reassurance, as well as discuss any additional concerns regarding her menstrual health and the use of emergency contraception.

In summary, while the symptoms she is experiencing can be normal side effects of taking an emergency contraceptive pill, it is essential to monitor her menstrual cycle closely. If her period is delayed, a pregnancy test should be taken, and if symptoms persist or worsen, seeking medical advice is recommended.

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