During different phases of the menstrual cycle, taking emergency contraception can have three different effects: inhibiting ovulation, interfering with fertilization, or preventing the fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus.
Once the fertilized egg has successfully implanted in the uterus, pregnancy begins. Therefore, emergency contraception cannot have a contraceptive effect once the fertilized egg has implanted.
Does the effectiveness of emergency contraception get affected if there is sexual activity after taking it?
If sexual intercourse occurs again after taking emergency contraception and there is no barrier method of contraception used, there is still a possibility of pregnancy. Therefore, after taking emergency contraception, it is necessary to use a condom or other barrier methods of contraception.
Furthermore, if fertilization and implantation have already occurred in a previous sexual encounter, emergency contraception will be ineffective.
Emergency contraception has a high effectiveness rate, so why can't it replace regular contraception methods such as oral contraceptive pills like "Marvelon"?
Although emergency contraception is highly effective in preventing unintended pregnancies, it is not 100% effective. Even with accurate use, there is a 2% failure rate.
If women frequently rely on emergency contraception for contraception purposes, the chances of pregnancy are higher compared to using other regular contraceptive methods. This is why emergency contraception cannot replace regular contraceptive pills.
