HomeAnswersObstetrics and Gynecologycontraceptive pillI had unprotected sex and took an emergency contraceptive pill. Is there a chance of pregnancy?

Should I continue taking contraceptive pills despite using the withdrawal method after unprotected sex?

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The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

iCliniq medical review team

Published At October 8, 2022
Reviewed AtOctober 10, 2022

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

I had unprotected sex on my 9th day on the pill (Ethinylestradiol 30 mcg; Levonorgestrel 125 mcg). It was already my third packet. My partner and I still used the withdrawal method. However, I still panicked even though I was taking the pill consistently and at the same time.

So I decided to take four pills of the same brand yesterday and another four after 12 hours as a form of ECP the day after sex. Then I continued with my 10th pill on the pack the same day. Would this put me at risk of pregnancy?

Would overdosing on hormonal pills negate its effectiveness?

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

As you are consistent in taking your pills on time, and in addition to that, you took extra pills, so chances of pregnancy are almost zero. So do not worry. However, you might face a lot of nausea, headache, vomiting, bloating, and delayed periods in the next cycle due to excess hormones in the extra number of pills.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

Should I just keep on taking my pills on the current pack? Now on my 11th day, or should I start a new pack?

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Just continue taking the remaining pills on the current pack.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

You mentioned that my period might be delayed.

Does this apply to withdrawal bleeding? I usually get my withdrawal bleeding during my 3rd day on the placebo pills. Will it also be delayed?

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Yes. The withdrawal bleeding might be delayed due to excess pills.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

But will I still get it during the placebo week, or is there a chance to bleed during my first week on the new pack?

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

During the placebo week. However, it might also extend up to the first few days on the new pack.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

Thank you for visiting icliniq.com.

It was my pleasure helping you with the medical query, and I would be happy to help you in the future as well.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Am I still protected for the next seven days even though I took ECP during my 10th day on the pill?

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Yes, you are safe for the next seven days.

Patient's Query

Thank you so much. How can I rate your services?

You can rate me on my icliniq profile.

Patient's Query

Hi doctor,

Thank you for the reply.

I have been drinking pills with 28 tablets (7 placebo pills). If I want to skip my bleeding, can I proceed with a new pack after the 21st pill? Would I still be protected once I start the new pack?

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern.

Yes you will be protected.

Patient's Query

Thank you for the reply.

You are welcome.

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

Dr. Priyadarshini Tripathy
Dr. Priyadarshini Tripathy

Obstetrics and Gynecology

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