When to Take a Pregnancy Test After Emergency Contraceptive Use?

Taking emergency contraceptive pills and pregnancy testing?

If you took the emergency contraceptive pill on February 14 and tested for pregnancy on February 21 and February 26 using a Man Shu Lei Dun pregnancy test stick, both showing one line, but your period has still not arrived, when is the best time to confirm that pregnancy is unlikely? Is it 18 days after taking the emergency contraceptive pill (March 3)?

hi, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/27

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the chances are low, but it's better to take contraceptive measures before engaging in sexual activity.
If your period is more than a week late, it's advisable to see a gynecologist.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/02/27

More Info

When it comes to taking a pregnancy test after using emergency contraception, timing is crucial for accurate results. Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), such as Plan B or Ella, are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. They work primarily by delaying ovulation, and their effectiveness diminishes the longer you wait to take them after unprotected sex.
In your case, you took the emergency contraceptive on February 14 and then tested for pregnancy on February 21 and February 26, both of which returned negative results. It’s important to note that ECPs can cause temporary disruptions in your menstrual cycle, which might delay your period. This can lead to confusion when trying to determine if you are pregnant or if the ECP has simply altered your cycle.

Generally, it is recommended to wait at least one week after your expected period to take a pregnancy test for the most reliable results. Since you mentioned that your period has not arrived yet, it would be prudent to wait until at least March 3 (18 days after taking the emergency contraceptive) to take another pregnancy test. By this time, if you are pregnant, the hormone hCG (human chorionic gonadotropin) should be detectable in your urine, and you should receive a more definitive answer.

If you continue to receive negative results but still do not get your period, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider. They can perform a blood test, which is more sensitive than a urine test and can detect pregnancy earlier. Additionally, they can help determine if there are other reasons for your missed period, such as hormonal imbalances or stress.

It’s also worth noting that while ECPs are effective, they are not 100% guaranteed to prevent pregnancy. If you have concerns about the possibility of being pregnant despite negative tests, or if you experience any unusual symptoms, seeking medical advice is crucial.
In summary, for the most accurate results after taking emergency contraception, wait until at least 18 days post-ingestion to take a pregnancy test. If your period does not arrive and tests remain negative, consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation.

Similar Q&A

How to Confirm No Pregnancy After Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills

After taking emergency contraception, what conditions can confirm that pregnancy has not occurred?

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, emergency contraceptive pills should be taken within 48 hours. Pregnancy tests are most accurate when taken at least 12 days after conception. It's best to use preventive measures beforehand. If your period is more than a week late, it is advisable to consult a gyneco...

Do You Need to Visit a Clinic for Pregnancy Testing After Emergency Contraception?

You had your menstrual period on January 8, February 13, and had unprotected intercourse with ejaculation on February 16. You took the emergency contraceptive pill, Ella, on the evening of February 18. On March 6 (19 days later), you took a morning urine pregnancy test, which sho...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, you should not be pregnant. Wishing you good health.

Heavy Bleeding After Emergency Contraceptive: Should You Test for Pregnancy?

On February 12, I took emergency contraception, and on February 21, I experienced a significant amount of bleeding that was bright red. Does this mean I am not pregnant, or should I still take a pregnancy test?

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, you should not be pregnant. If you are still concerned, you can take a pregnancy test in 12 days. Wishing you good health.

How Soon Can You Take a Pregnancy Test After Emergency Contraceptive?

Hello Doctor: My last menstrual period started on November 15. I had sexual intercourse (with ejaculation) on November 30 at 6:00 PM, but I took a single dose of emergency contraception at 6:30 PM. The next morning at 10:00 AM, I went to the gynecologist and received two more pil...

Dr. Yang Wangjun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: (1) The success rate of emergency contraceptive pills is approximately 92-99% when taken within 12 hours. Different reports may vary, but the success rate is quite high. (2) It is usually sufficient to take a pregnancy test after a missed period. Thank you for your message...