Is an emergency pill necessary after a protected sex?

Question

Hello doctor,

I had protected sex two days back around the afternoon. But that was my ovulation day. Should I take an emergency contraceptive pill tomorrow morning? Will that work anymore? My due period is preferably after 13 days. I had taken an emergency contraceptive pill before three months.

Answer 1

Hello,

Wecome to icliniq.com.

Thank you for your query.

If you had protected sex then there is no need to take the pill. Condoms if used properly have a very low failure rate but if you have any doubt or you are very anxious then I would advise you to take an emergency pill. It would definitely work as it can be taken within 72 hours of intercourse. Though it is very rare, sometimes there can be sperms in pre-ejaculatory secretion so there is a theoretical risk of conception from it, if it had come in contact with the vagina during the foreplay. But it is extremely rare. And I think that instead of stressing about this it is better to take the pill. I-pill can cause side effects but they are not very serious. You may feel bloated and nauseous for a day or two and few females experience withdrawal bleeding after discontinuing the pill. Now you are aware of the pros and cons of taking an i-pill. You can decide and if you are still doubtful then feel free to get back to me.

I hope this has helped you.

Thank you.