Emergency Contraception: Do You Need a Second Dose After Unprotected Sex?

Emergency contraceptive pill

Hello, doctor.
My period was from December 25 to December 26.
I had unprotected sexual intercourse with withdrawal on January 2 at midnight, and I haven't taken emergency contraception yet.
Later, on January 2 at midnight, I had unprotected sexual intercourse with withdrawal again, but this time I took Plan B immediately afterward.
However, it has been 24 hours since the first incident.
Should I take another dose? What is the likelihood of pregnancy in this situation?

Xiao Hua, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/01/03

Dr. Lü Lizheng reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

The contraceptive effect is already present, and there is no need to take additional doses.
It can reduce the probability of pregnancy by 80%.
Sincerely, Dr.
Li-Cheng Lu, Taoyuan Hospital.

Reply Date: 2016/01/03

More Info

When it comes to emergency contraception (EC), understanding the timing and effectiveness is crucial for making informed decisions after unprotected sex. Based on your situation, you had unprotected intercourse on two occasions: the first on January 2nd, and the second on January 2nd after midnight, which is essentially the same day. You took emergency contraception (Plan B, or similar) after the second incident, but you are concerned about whether you need to take a second dose.

Emergency contraception is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse. The two most common types of EC are levonorgestrel (Plan B One-Step) and ulipristal acetate (ella). Levonorgestrel is effective up to 72 hours after unprotected sex, while ulipristal acetate can be effective up to 120 hours. However, the sooner you take it, the better the effectiveness.

In your case, since you had unprotected sex twice on January 2nd, taking the emergency contraceptive after the second incident is a good step. If you took it within 72 hours of the first unprotected encounter, you are likely covered for both incidents, as the medication can still be effective for the earlier encounter. However, if you are concerned about the timing or the effectiveness, it is generally safe to take a second dose of levonorgestrel if you are within the 72-hour window from the first incident.
Regarding the likelihood of pregnancy, it is important to note that the risk of pregnancy from unprotected sex depends on various factors, including your menstrual cycle and ovulation timing. If you were near ovulation during the time of unprotected sex, the risk of pregnancy is higher. However, since you have taken emergency contraception, this significantly reduces the risk.

If you are still feeling uncertain, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice. They can provide guidance based on your specific circumstances and may recommend a follow-up pregnancy test if your next period is delayed or if you experience any unusual symptoms.

In summary, taking emergency contraception after unprotected sex is an effective way to prevent pregnancy, especially if taken promptly. If you are within the recommended time frame for taking a second dose, it may be beneficial to do so for added assurance. Always consult with a healthcare professional for tailored advice and to address any lingering concerns about your reproductive health.

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