When should I take emergency contraceptive pills
Release time : 06/12/2025 09:30:03
Emergency contraceptives, also known as postcoital pills, are effective within 24 hours of use and remain effective up to 72 hours. However, their effectiveness decreases significantly thereafter. When should emergency contraceptives be taken? Aside from their primary purpose of contraception, it's important to note that emergency contraceptives are not always effective at any given time. They have a specific time window for effectiveness. Let us explore the timing of taking emergency contraceptives from MommyNet's encyclopedia.
First of all, we should know that emergency contraception is a form of contraceptive method used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse or if the contraceptive method fails. It is different from other long-acting or short-acting contraceptives which are methods of long-term contraception, and it is a form of emergency contraception used for women who suffer an accidental injury, engage in unprotected sex, or experience other failures of contraceptive methods (such as condom breakage).
Emergency contraceptives are mainly aimed at post-event remedies, and the contraceptive effectiveness rate is about 85%. As long as conventional short-acting oral contraceptives are taken correctly, the contraceptive effect is very reliable, and the contraceptive effectiveness rate can reach more than 99%. Generally speaking, in order to avoid avoiding the harm of an unexpected pregnancy, it is wise to make complete preparations beforehand.
Emergency contraceptives are generally taken orally with the first tablet 72 hours after sexual intercourse, and another tablet 12 hours later. The sooner you take it, the better the effect. Taking emergency contraceptives is only a remedy and should not be used as a routine contraceptive method. It can only be used occasionally because of its high dose and large side effects. Generally speaking, you can take emergency contraceptives at most once a month, and it is best not to take more than 3 times a year.
The types of emergency contraceptives are divided into general directions. There are generally two types. One is a single progesterone emergency contraceptive, most of which is levonorgestrel, which is an over-the-counter drug; the other is an anti-progesterone emergency contraceptive. The active ingredient is mifepristone, which is a prescription drug. The following mother website encyclopedia breaks down the different brands and usage methods of emergency contraceptives: All female friends can choose the product that is most suitable for you based on your own situation.
1. Danmei (levonorgestrel enteric-coated tablets) Danmei emergency contraceptive includes: 1.5mg×1 tablet, 1.5mg×2 tablets. Administration method: Take orally, take 1 tablet orally 72 hours after intercourse. The sooner you take it, the better. You can take it at any time during the menstrual cycle.
2. 18-methylnorethindrone is a 48-hour remedial contraceptive pill. Specific usage: Take one tablet orally 48 hours after sexual intercourse, and take another tablet 12 hours later.
3. Houdinguo (Mifepristone) is a contraceptive that is taken within 72 hours after sexual intercourse. Only one tablet can be used as a contraceptive. The original 25-milligram specification was a prescription drug, and the 10-milligram specification was also a prescription drug, but it could be purchased at pharmacies.
Yuting (levonorgestrel tablets) Yuting takes the first tablet (0.75mg) within 72 hours after sexual intercourse, and the second tablet (0.75mg) every 12 hours. The total amount is two tablets.
This product is an emergency contraceptive and cannot be taken as a regular contraceptive.
5. Anting emergency contraceptives, including: 1.5mg×1 tablet, 1.5mg×2 tablets. Can be taken at any time during the menstrual cycle, only 1 tablet at a time.
The side effects of emergency contraceptives are numerous, and it is essential to fully understand before taking them. Here are some points summarized by Moms' Net Dictionary.
1. Nausea: The symptoms of nausea following the administration of emergency contraception generally last no more than 24 hours.
2. Vomiting: Taking it with food, or before bedtime, can reduce the incidence of nausea and vomiting.
If vomiting occurs within 1 hour after taking emergency contraceptives, it is advisable to promptly take one more dose.
3. Unpredictable Menstrual Bleeding: Some women may experience spotting after taking medication, which generally requires no intervention. However, it is important to inform the patient about this occurrence and provide them with counseling and education regarding pre-medication and post-medication consultations.
4. Menstrual Changes: In most women, menstruation occurs on schedule, but some may experience menstruation either early or late. If menstruation is delayed by a week, a urine pregnancy test should be conducted to determine if it is due to an emergency contraceptive failure.
5. Ovulatory Changes: Taking emergency contraceptives can affect menstrual cycles, and women should try to use highly effective contraceptive methods after this period. Do not risk using emergency contraceptives or safe sex or withdrawal methodologies; such practices can be dangerous and may lead to infertility.
6. Other symptoms: breast tenderness, headache, dizziness, fatigue, etc. These symptoms are generally mild and last no more than 24 hours.
Precautions for the use of emergency contraceptives: 1. The contraceptive pill should be stored properly to prevent minors from accidental ingestion.
Do not take tablets if they are damp or melted, or if the coating layer is worn or crushed, as it may affect the contraceptive effect or cause vaginal bleeding.
2. It can only be used occasionally, and it can only be used once a month at most, and it can not be used every month.
3. Take one tablet per day for 72 hours, then take another tablet 12 hours later. The total number of tablets is two.
The earlier you take your medication, the better the results will be.
4. If vomiting occurs within 2 hours after taking the medicine, it is necessary to immediately take an additional tablet.
5. After taking emergency contraception, if sexual activity occurs again, it is necessary to take contraception measures to prevent pregnancy.
6. Cardiovascular patients, diabetic patients, breast cancer patients, nursing mothers within six months postpartum and those who have been confirmed to be pregnant are prohibited from using this medication.
Taking emergency contraception may cause amenorrhea. One of the side effects of emergency contraception is an impact on women's menstrual cycles, which is due to the much higher dose of the medication compared to standard contraceptives. This can result in menstrual irregularities, including amenorrhea, so it's important for women to be aware of this.
Emergency contraceptives contain large amounts of hormones and are used as a last resort when regular contraceptives fail.
It can easily lead to endocrine disorders, potentially disrupting menstrual cycles or even causing amenorrhea. Although it does not cause infertility, it significantly affects the mental and physical health of women.
When such an occurrence occurs, it is advisable to actively engage in exercise, particularly aerobic activities. Regularly engaging in such activities over time can enhance physical fitness, alter one's bodily constitution, alleviate symptoms, and bring joy both physically and mentally. It is also necessary to actively pursue treatment.
While undergoing active treatment, it is also important to adapt to seasonal changes and take appropriate measures for warmth. Additionally, maintaining a balance between rest and physical activity is essential, yet this does not mean that exercise is unnecessary. Based on one's actual situation and physical condition, engaging in appropriate exercises can help the recovery process progress more quickly.
The medical information presented in this article is for reference only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice.
In the event of discomfort, it is recommended to seek medical attention immediately. The diagnosis and treatment should be based on clinical examinations conducted by a professional.