Can You Get Pregnant After Taking Emergency Contraceptive?

Emergency contraceptive pills and pregnancy?

Hello Doctor: I would like to ask, if a male experiences erectile dysfunction and is unable to ejaculate during intercourse, and I have taken emergency contraception, is there still a risk of pregnancy? Thank you.

Ke Ke, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/02/27

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

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

Reply Date: 2016/02/27

More Info

When it comes to the effectiveness of emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), it's important to understand how they work and the circumstances under which they are most effective. Emergency contraceptive pills, such as Plan B (levonorgestrel) and Ella (ulipristal acetate), are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. They work primarily by delaying ovulation, which means that if you take them before ovulation occurs, they can effectively prevent the sperm from fertilizing an egg.

In your situation, where there was no ejaculation during intercourse due to the male partner's inability to maintain an erection, the risk of pregnancy is significantly reduced. Sperm needs to be present in the vaginal canal for fertilization to occur, and if there was no ejaculation, the likelihood of sperm being present is minimal. However, it is important to note that pre-ejaculatory fluid (pre-cum) can contain sperm, although the quantity is usually much lower than in ejaculate.
Taking an emergency contraceptive pill after such an encounter can further reduce the risk of pregnancy. ECPs are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, ideally within 72 hours for Plan B and up to 120 hours for Ella. The effectiveness of these pills decreases the longer you wait to take them after the incident.

Now, regarding your concern about the possibility of pregnancy after taking the emergency contraceptive pill, if you took it as directed and there was no ejaculation, the chances of becoming pregnant are very low. However, no contraceptive method is 100% effective, and there is always a small risk involved.

If you are concerned about the possibility of being pregnant, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test if your next menstrual period is delayed. Pregnancy tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period.

As for the potential effects of drinking alcohol during the early stages of pregnancy, if you were indeed pregnant at that time, it is important to note that alcohol consumption during pregnancy can pose risks to fetal development. The first trimester is particularly critical, as this is when the baby's organs are forming. However, if you were unaware of your pregnancy and consumed alcohol, it is essential to discuss this with your healthcare provider. They can provide guidance and support based on your specific situation.

In conclusion, while the risk of pregnancy in your case appears to be low due to the circumstances described, it is always best to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice and to address any concerns you may have regarding your reproductive health and potential pregnancy. They can also provide information on safe practices during pregnancy, should you find out that you are expecting.

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Hello, the chances of pregnancy are low, and you shouldn't rely on the safe period. It's better to take preventive 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.

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