How Effective Is Unwanted 72 Emergency Contraceptive In Preventing Pregnancy?

Posted on Thu, 5 May 2016

Medically reviewed by Ask A Doctor - 24x7 Medical Review Team

Thu, 5 May 2016 Answered on

Sat, 18 Jun 2016 Last reviewed on

Question : Unwanted 72 was taken on 26 march after leakge frm condom was suspected within 24hrs..last period date was on 16th march...on 6th march bleeding occured for 3days but less compared to period bleeding (60%).nxt period date was on 15-16th april but bleeding occured on 21th but veryy less for one day only..home pregnancy test was done on 26th april it came negative..

When Do I expect my next period?

Nything regarding pregnancy?

Answered by Dr. Shanti Vennam (18 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Pregnancy is unlikely.

Detailed Answer:
Hello,

Thanks for posting your query.

Since you have taken the emergency contraceptive pill, hormone imbalances are expected and this is the most likely reason for the menstrual disturbance you are experiencing. Pregnancy is unlikely.

If you suspect pregnancy, please get an estimation of the serum beta-hCG titres for confirmation/exclusion. A sonogram of the pelvis, preferably in the trans-vaginal route is of added help.

With pregnancy excluded, the next period should follow your usual length of menstrual cycle, i.e., 26 days duration, 28 days duration etc.

Please see a specialist for proper evaluation and further management.

Hope your query has been answered. Please feel free to contact for further information. I will be happy to help.

Regards,
Shanti.V.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Sonia Raina

Follow up: Dr. Shanti Vennam (21 minutes later)

so I can expect my next period on or around 20th May if the test is negative and bleeding on 21th april is taken as last month period?

Answered by Dr. Shanti Vennam (7 hours later)

Brief Answer:
You may consider so if you have 30-day cycles.

Detailed Answer:
Hi,

Thanks for writing back.

Yes, you may expect your next period around the date mentioned, if you have 30-day cycles and if the bleeding you had on the 21st of April is considered a natural period.

Hope this helps.

regards,
Shanti.V.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar