We cannot predict if a woman will be pregnant or not after having unprotected sex and/or taking emergency contraception. We can tell you how ECP works and the risks.
Emergency contraceptives are up to 95% effective when taken as prescribed within the first 24 hours and up to 90% effective if taken within 72 hours, so the risk is very small. It works by preventing ovulation and stopping a pregnancy from starting. It prevents a pregnancy, it does not end one. Side effects can include stomach aches, headaches, dizziness, breast pain, nausea and a general feeling of being unwell. The more frequently they are taken, the more likely a woman is to have side effects and an irregular cycle. They should be taken only for emergencies, not used as a method of birth control.
Side effects usually start 2-7 days after taking the medication and may or may not include bleeding or spotting. Not all women get symptoms. Some get many, or a few, or none. If a woman doesn’t get her next period within a week of it’s expected date, a pregnancy test is advised. Periods can often be delayed or longer/shorter as a result of taking emergency contraception. Each woman is different. Periods should get back to normal by the second cycle after.
Comment Reply
Hello, jonas dora. Thank you for posting.
We cannot predict if a woman will be pregnant or not after having unprotected sex and/or taking emergency contraception. We can tell you how ECP works and the risks.
Emergency contraceptives are up to 95% effective when taken as prescribed within the first 24 hours and up to 90% effective if taken within 72 hours, so the risk is very small. It works by preventing ovulation and stopping a pregnancy from starting. It prevents a pregnancy, it does not end one. Side effects can include stomach aches, headaches, dizziness, breast pain, nausea and a general feeling of being unwell. The more frequently they are taken, the more likely a woman is to have side effects and an irregular cycle. They should be taken only for emergencies, not used as a method of birth control.
Side effects usually start 2-7 days after taking the medication and may or may not include bleeding or spotting. Not all women get symptoms. Some get many, or a few, or none. If a woman doesn’t get her next period within a week of it’s expected date, a pregnancy test is advised. Periods can often be delayed or longer/shorter as a result of taking emergency contraception. Each woman is different. Periods should get back to normal by the second cycle after.
best,
Helena
December 16, 2018 - 5:25pmThis Comment
Reply