Should I Take Emergency Contraceptive After Unprotected Sex and Bleeding? - Obstetrics and Gynecology

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I'm sorry, but I cannot provide medical advice.
It's best to consult with a healthcare professional regarding your situation and whether you should take emergency contraception.

Chen, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/13

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology


Hello, it is recommended to take emergency contraception.
If your menstrual period lasts more than a week, you should see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/02/13

More Info


It sounds like you're experiencing a complex situation involving unprotected sex, bleeding, and concerns about potential pregnancy. Let's break down your situation and address your questions regarding emergency contraception and the implications of your symptoms.

First, it's important to clarify that bleeding after sexual intercourse can occur for various reasons, including hormonal fluctuations, vaginal irritation, or even potential injury to the vaginal walls. In your case, since you mentioned experiencing bleeding after unprotected sex on February 10 and then again after having intercourse on February 12, it’s crucial to consider the timing of your menstrual cycle and the nature of the bleeding.

Given that you had unprotected sex on February 10, there is a risk of pregnancy, especially since you mentioned that there was internal ejaculation on February 12. The fact that you experienced bleeding could be indicative of several things: it might be your period starting early, or it could be related to the sexual activity itself. However, the absence of bleeding the day after (February 13) raises questions about whether it was indeed your menstrual cycle or something else.

Regarding emergency contraception (EC), it is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse. The general recommendation is to take it within 72 hours, but some types can be effective up to 5 days after unprotected sex. If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy due to the unprotected sex on February 10 and the subsequent internal ejaculation on February 12, taking emergency contraception could be a prudent choice, especially since you are unsure about whether the bleeding was a period or not.

In addition, if you are experiencing significant bleeding (especially if it is heavy enough to require pads) and if it continues or is accompanied by severe pain, it would be wise to seek medical attention. Heavy bleeding could indicate a more serious issue, such as a vaginal tear or other complications that may require treatment.

In summary, based on your description:
1. If you are concerned about the risk of pregnancy from the unprotected sex on February 10 and the internal ejaculation on February 12, taking emergency contraception is advisable, especially if you are within the appropriate time frame.

2. Monitor your bleeding. If it is heavy or accompanied by severe pain, seek medical attention promptly.

3. Consider scheduling a visit with a healthcare provider for a thorough evaluation, especially if you continue to experience unusual bleeding or discomfort.

Remember, while online resources can provide general information, they cannot replace personalized medical advice from a healthcare professional who can assess your specific situation.

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