Can a perimenopausal woman take I-pill post unprotected sex?

Question

Hi doctor,

I am 48 years female. For the last two years, I have been having perimenopause. My periods have been very infrequent. I get it once in four to five months. My last period was four months ago. Today I had intercourse with my husband, and some of his secretions might have entered my vagina. As a precaution, I want to take an emergency contraceptive like I-pill. Can I take I-pill today? (less than 24 hours after the intercourse) Is it ok for my age? (I am not using any normal contraceptives, but my husband uses condoms, and today there was no condom). On a few occasions, I had taken I-pill (three to four times in the past). If not, please suggest any other emergency capsule that is safe and suitable for my age that I can take today. Kindly help.

Answer 1

Hi,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. I suggest you can use I-pill for this as of unprotected intercourse. Still, it would not be advisable to take it frequently as it can sometimes cause mood disturbances that aggravate menopausal symptoms. To confirm if you have entered menopause, I suggest you can do a blood test to check serum FSH (follicular stimulating hormone). If you need a long-term contraceptive device, I would suggest you use LNG-IUS (levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine system) or Mirena, as it will also be helpful during menopause.

Kindly revert in case of further queries.

Answer 2

Hi,

Welcome back to icliniq.com.

I understand your concern. Usually, contraceptive pills are not advisable after 40 years, even at lower doses. The intrauterine device would be the safest, or I suggest you use condoms as barrier contraception. There are chances of pregnancy. Even though very minor, it does not mean it would not happen. There would always be a risk at your age. The risk would be minimal but not 0 %.

I hope you understand.