I started a new contraceptive 4 days before having sex, could i be pregnant?

Hi Anon,

Thank you for sharing your question with the EmpowHER community.

The manufacturer of Escapelle indicates the pill has to be taken within 72 hour of having unprotected sex.

The sooner you take it, the more likely it is to work. Ideally, you should try to take the tablet within 72 hours following unprotected intercourse, as this is when it is most effective.

The efficacy of levonorgestrel Emergency Contraception Pills depend on how many hours have passed since you had unprotected sex:

• Within 24 hrs - 95%
• Between 25-48 hrs - 85%
• Between 49-72 hrs - 58%

Based on your details, you were outside of that window of time. Because you had only been on your birth control 4 days prior to having unprotected sex, you could potentially be pregnant.  How to Take Escapelle?

There are a couple of things you can do.

1. Take a home pregnancy test, if you are worried that you are pregnant.
2. Wait to see if your next menstrual cycle comes.  You will know Escapelle has worked when you have your next period and it seems like a normal period.
3. Go to the doctor if;

• If your period is more than 5 days late, or unusually heavy or light.
•  If you have sudden or unusual pain in the lower abdomen and your period is late.

I hope this helps.

~Gillette