Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Pregnancy Risks After Condom Failure

Emergency contraceptive pill

Hello, doctor! My girlfriend had her period on February 9th.
On the fourth day of her period, we had sexual intercourse using a condom.
Then, on February 21st, during intercourse, we discovered that the condom had a small tear about 2 centimeters in size.
The next day around 4 PM, she took emergency contraception.
What is the likelihood of her becoming pregnant?

lai, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/23

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the chances of pregnancy are low, and you should not rely on the safe period.
It is better to take preventive measures for contraception before engaging in sexual activity.
If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/02/23

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 the condom broke during intercourse on February 21, and you took the emergency contraceptive pill the following day, you have taken a proactive step to reduce the risk of unintended pregnancy.

ECPs are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse. They can be taken up to 72 hours (3 days) after the event, and some types can be effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after. Since you took the pill within 24 hours, you maximized your chances of preventing pregnancy. The effectiveness of ECPs is estimated to be around 75-89% depending on how soon they are taken after the incident.

The likelihood of pregnancy after using ECPs can vary based on several factors, including the timing of ovulation in your girlfriend's menstrual cycle. If she was not close to ovulation when the condom broke, the chances of pregnancy are lower. The menstrual cycle typically involves ovulation occurring about 14 days before the next period, so if her cycle is regular, you can estimate when she is most fertile.

It's also important to note that ECPs can cause some temporary side effects, such as nausea, fatigue, or changes in the menstrual cycle. Some women may experience their next period earlier or later than expected, and the flow may be lighter or heavier than usual. If your girlfriend's period is significantly delayed (more than a week), it would be advisable for her to take a pregnancy test to confirm whether or not she is pregnant.

In summary, while there is still a possibility of pregnancy after a condom failure, taking emergency contraception promptly significantly reduces that risk. If your girlfriend has any concerns or experiences unusual symptoms, it would be best for her to consult with a healthcare provider for further guidance and support. Additionally, discussing long-term contraceptive options may be beneficial to prevent similar situations in the future.

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