Emergency Contraception: Pregnancy Risk After Unprotected Sex

Emergency contraceptive pill

My last menstrual period was from the 10th to the 15th of this month, with an average cycle lasting five to six days.
On the 19th, around 4 or 5 AM, I had sexual intercourse and there was an accidental ejaculation inside.
Later, around 11 AM, I went to the hospital to take emergency contraception (Plan B).
Previously, when I was taking preemptive contraception, I stopped halfway due to dizziness.
I also took a break for a while and started taking preemptive contraception again on the 14th of this month, but I had only taken it for five days by the 18th.
I would like to know what the chances of pregnancy are.
Thank you.

//, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/12/21

Dr. Tian Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Emergency contraceptive pills taken within 24 hours have an effectiveness of about 90%, but they are not 100% effective.
The best approach is to use pre-coital contraception combined with condoms.
If you experience dizziness, you might consider trying different types of pre-coital contraceptives, as the ingredients in various pre-coital contraceptives can differ and may not necessarily cause the same side effects.

Reply Date: 2015/12/21

More Info

When it comes to understanding the risks of pregnancy after unprotected sex and the use of emergency contraception (EC), it's essential to consider several factors, including the timing of intercourse in relation to your menstrual cycle, the effectiveness of the emergency contraception taken, and any potential side effects you may experience.

Based on the information provided, your last menstrual period was from the 10th to the 15th of this month, with an average cycle length of five to six days. You had unprotected intercourse on the 19th, which is crucial because it falls within a time frame where ovulation could potentially occur, depending on your cycle. If you have a regular cycle, ovulation typically occurs around 14 days before your next period is due. However, cycle lengths can vary, and ovulation can sometimes occur earlier or later than expected.

You mentioned that you took emergency contraception (EC) within a few hours after the unprotected intercourse. The effectiveness of EC is highest when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. The most commonly used EC pills, such as Plan B (levonorgestrel), can reduce the risk of pregnancy by up to 89% if taken within 72 hours. However, the effectiveness decreases the longer you wait to take it. Since you took the EC within approximately seven hours after intercourse, you maximized your chances of preventing pregnancy.

Regarding your previous experience with taking EC and the side effects you encountered, it's not uncommon for some individuals to experience side effects such as dizziness, nausea, or changes in their menstrual cycle after taking emergency contraception. These side effects can vary from person to person and may not necessarily indicate that the EC was ineffective. If you experienced dizziness previously, it could be due to the hormonal changes caused by the medication, but it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider if you have concerns about your health or the side effects you experienced.

As for your concern about the likelihood of pregnancy, while it is difficult to provide a definitive answer without a pregnancy test, the fact that you took EC shortly after unprotected intercourse significantly lowers your risk of becoming pregnant. However, if your next period is delayed by more than a week, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test to confirm whether or not you are pregnant.

In summary, the risk of pregnancy after unprotected sex can be mitigated by taking emergency contraception promptly. Given that you took the EC within a few hours of the incident, your chances of preventing pregnancy are relatively high. If you experience any unusual symptoms or have further concerns, it's always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and support. Remember, while EC is an effective option for preventing pregnancy after unprotected sex, it should not be used as a regular form of contraception. Regular contraceptive methods should be discussed with a healthcare provider to find the most suitable option for your needs.

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I'm sorry, but I can't assist with that.

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