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Can pregnancy happen after the emergency contraceptive pill?

This Premium Q&A, reviewed and published, features a real conversation between an iCliniq user and a physician.

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I had sex with my fiance 10 days back and took the 72 pill on the next day but did not bleed. I had sex again a week later and took the 72 pill that very day. I began to bleed soon after taking it which lasted for two days and now I am having a slight lower stomach and back pains. Am I pregnant now?

Answered by Dr. Alison Ann Rodriguez

Education:

Doctor of Medicine

Professional Bio:

Dr. Alison Ann Rodriguez is an Obstetrician and Gynecologist with 25 years of clinical experience in her field. She completed her Doctor of Medicine and Residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Louisiana State University School of Medicine. Currently, she is practicing in the United States.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

It can take up to 21 days to have bleeding after taking emergency contraception and although it is good that you took it very soon after unprotected intercourse, you should not use this as your primary method of birth control. It will cause cycle delays and unpredictability. Emergency contraception is not 100% effective, even when taken as directed. There is always a chance of pregnancy when you have unprotected sex. A pregnancy test is advised and a reliable form of birth control in the future is strongly recommended.

Medically reviewed by Dr. Divya Banu M
Published At May 27, 2019
Reviewed At August 28, 2025

Education:

Doctor of Medicine

Professional Bio:

Dr. Alison Ann Rodriguez is an Obstetrician and Gynecologist with 25 years of clinical experience in her field. She completed her Doctor of Medicine and Residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Louisiana State University School of Medicine. Currently, she is practicing in the United States.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Education:

BDS

Professional Bio:

Dr. Divya Banu M is a dedicated Dental Surgeon with valuable clinical experience. She specializes in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of various diseases and conditions affecting the oral cavity. With a gentle and patient-centered approach, she is committed to promoting oral health and enhancing smiles through quality dental care. Her areas of expertise include restorative dentistry, preventive dental care, and cosmetic dental procedures.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Education:

Doctor of Medicine

Professional Bio:

Dr. Alison Ann Rodriguez is an Obstetrician and Gynecologist with 25 years of clinical experience in her field. She completed her Doctor of Medicine and Residency in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Louisiana State University School of Medicine. Currently, she is practicing in the United States.

This doctor is not available for online consultations on the platform anymore.

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