HomeAnswersObstetrics and Gynecologycontraceptive pillWhat are contraceptive pills, and what are their side effects?

What side effects would occur if contraceptive pills are taken after unprotected intercourse?

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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 August 20, 2022
Reviewed AtOctober 10, 2023

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

I wanted to know about contraceptive pills as I had unprotected intercourse. What are the side effects of these pills?

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

The pills you take after unprotected intercourse are emergency contraceptive pills which are different from the routine oral contraceptive pills. The emergency pills are available easily. They must be taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse and are most effective within the first 14 days after your period. When was your last period, and when did you have intercourse?

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor for the reply,

My last period was 15 days ago, and I had intercourse three days ago. Can I take an I-pill? Will I have any side effects?

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I suggest you take the I-pill (Levonorgestrel) as it is less than 72 hours from your last intercourse. It does not have long-term side effects, but it can cause a change in your periods for the next two to three months. If you want more protection, I suggest you use the combined oral pill or any other method of contraception.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor for the reply,

I will take the I-pill. What is the course of the medication?

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

It is just a single pill that you need to take within 72 hours, preferably after food.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor for the reply,

Will there be any other side affects?

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

You will experience bleeding after taking the tablet due to withdrawal effect of the hormones in around two days. Your next period will be delayed.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor for the reply,

Is it available over-the-counter?

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

It is available in my country.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor for the reply,

I shall take the same at night after food.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Please consult me if you have any queries.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor for the reply,

I am unable to find I-pill. Please suggest me an alternative medicine. It is going to be 72 hours.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I suggest you take the tablet Unwanted-72 (Levonorgestrel). Consult a specialist doctor, discuss with them, and take medications with their consent.

Patient's Query

Thank you doctor for the reply,

I took the suggested medication.

Hello,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

Please consult me for further queries.

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

Dr. Manwani Saloni Dilip
Dr. Manwani Saloni Dilip

Obstetrics and Gynecology

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