Emergency Contraception: Risks, Effectiveness, and Future Fertility Concerns

Emergency contraception

I got my period on February 25, and there was a very small amount of brown discharge until March 2.
On March 2, I had sexual intercourse with withdrawal method, and I took emergency contraception that night.
I would like to know what the chances of getting pregnant are in this situation.
I have taken emergency contraception once before; will this affect my fertility in the future? I obtained the emergency contraception from a gynecologist, who mentioned that my period would come again in a few days, but it just ended not long ago.
Is it possible to have another period so soon?

Gong, 10~19 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/03/02

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the chances are generally low.
Sometimes, emergency contraceptive pills can cause irregular menstruation, but they do not lead to infertility.
It is better to take preventive measures for contraception "before" sexual activity.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2016/03/02

More Info

Emergency contraception (EC) is a crucial topic for individuals who are sexually active and wish to prevent unintended pregnancies. Your concerns about the effectiveness of emergency contraception, its potential impact on future fertility, and the timing of your menstrual cycle are valid and important to address.

Firstly, regarding the effectiveness of emergency contraception, it is essential to understand that EC is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse. In your case, since you had sexual intercourse on March 2 and took the emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) the same night, you maximized its effectiveness. ECPs can reduce the risk of pregnancy by up to 89% when taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex, but they are most effective within the first 24 hours. Since you mentioned that you had a very light brown discharge after your period, this is likely just residual menstrual flow, which is common.

Now, concerning the likelihood of pregnancy after taking the ECP, if you took it correctly and within the recommended time frame, the chances of becoming pregnant are significantly reduced. However, no contraceptive method is 100% effective, and there is always a small risk of pregnancy. If you experience any unusual symptoms or a missed period in the following weeks, it would be wise to take a pregnancy test for peace of mind.

Regarding your concern about future fertility, using emergency contraception does not affect your long-term fertility. ECPs are designed for occasional use and do not have lasting effects on your reproductive system. However, frequent use of emergency contraception is not recommended as a regular birth control method. It is essential to find a reliable and consistent method of contraception that suits your lifestyle and health needs.

As for your menstrual cycle, it is not uncommon for your period to be irregular after taking emergency contraception. The hormonal changes induced by the ECP can cause your next period to arrive earlier or later than expected, and it may also be lighter or heavier than usual. If your period does not arrive within three weeks of taking the ECP, you should take a pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy.

In summary, taking emergency contraception shortly after unprotected intercourse significantly reduces the risk of pregnancy. It does not affect future fertility, and while your menstrual cycle may be temporarily disrupted, this is typically not a cause for concern. If you have further questions or experience any unusual symptoms, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice and support.

Similar Q&A

Understanding Emergency Contraception: Risks and Effects Explained

Hello, doctor. My girlfriend and I had sexual intercourse on the 26th, and I ejaculated inside her. Her last menstrual period started on June 16, and her cycle is 30 days. What is the likelihood of her becoming pregnant? Afterward, I accompanied her to the gynecologist to get med...

Dr. Chen Changfu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
A regular menstrual cycle is 30 days, with ovulation estimated to occur around days 15 to 16 of the cycle. Engaging in unprotected intercourse on day 11 of the cycle theoretically has a low chance of resulting in pregnancy; however, there is concern that ovulation may sometimes o...

Effectiveness of Emergency Contraceptive Pills During Fertile Window

Taking emergency contraception (the morning-after pill) within one hour after unprotected intercourse during the fertile window does not reduce its effectiveness. Emergency contraception is designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex, and its efficacy is highest when take...

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the effectiveness of emergency contraceptive pills is about 90%. It is best to use preventive measures beforehand. Wishing you good health.

Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Effectiveness and Side Effects Explained

Hello doctor: A few days ago, I had sexual intercourse with my boyfriend, and he accidentally ejaculated inside me. I've been very worried about getting pregnant, so I asked him to buy me the morning-after pill. However, I'm not sure if it will be effective and if there...

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: The emergency contraceptive pill has over 90% effectiveness in preventing pregnancy and may affect the timing of the next menstrual period. Side effects are minimal. Dr. Cheng Jin-He, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Hsinchu Hospital.

Emergency Contraception: Effectiveness and Menstrual Delay Concerns

Having intercourse with your boyfriend on the day of ovulation, even without ejaculation, poses a risk of pregnancy, especially if the condom slipped down to the glans and did not fully come off. Taking the emergency contraceptive pill, Ella, shortly after the incident can signif...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
What you need is not medical advice but rather a refresher on sexual education credits. For such inquiries, it is recommended to refer to the National Health Administration's "Sexual Well-being e-Learning" or the Society of Obstetrics and Gynecology's "Ad...