What to do if you had unprotected sex during ovulation and don't want to get pregnant
Jun 05, 2024
Source: Cainiu Health
Dr. Zhao Xiaodong
Introduction
In general, "having sex" refers to sexual intercourse. If one does not wish to become pregnant during the ovulation period, emergency contraceptive pills, contraceptive injections, intrauterine devices (IUDs), vaginal douching, or avoiding further intercourse may be used as remedial measures, with the choice depending on individual circumstances. However, no remedial method is absolutely safe or reliable. It is recommended to use appropriate and effective contraception during sexual intercourse to prevent unintended pregnancy.
In general, "having sex" refers to sexual intercourse. If one does not wish to become pregnant after intercourse during the ovulation period, emergency contraceptive measures may include taking emergency contraceptive pills, receiving contraceptive injections, inserting an intrauterine device (IUD), douching the vagina, or avoiding further sexual activity. The appropriate method should be chosen based on individual circumstances. Specific options are analyzed as follows:
1. Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills
After sexual intercourse during the ovulation period, taking emergency contraceptive pills is an effective option. Commonly used medications include combined levonorgestrel tablets, mifepristone, and levonorgestrel tablets. These should be taken within 72 hours after intercourse, with earlier administration providing better effectiveness.
2. Receiving Contraceptive Injections
One can also visit a professional medical facility where a doctor administers injectable contraceptives, such as combined medroxyprogesterone acetate injection, combined hydroxyprogesterone caproate injection, or combined norethisterone enanthate injection. These work by suppressing ovarian ovulation and reducing the likelihood of pregnancy.
3. Inserting an Intrauterine Device (IUD)
For women who are not suitable candidates for emergency contraceptive pills, insertion of an IUD may serve as an alternative. It is recommended to insert a copper-containing or hormone-releasing IUD within five days after intercourse. This prevents fertilization and implantation of the egg, thereby achieving contraception.
4. Vaginal Douching
Douching the vagina with warm water and cleaning the external genitalia may help reduce residual semen and lower the risk of pregnancy.
5. Avoiding Further Sexual Intercourse
The ovulation period is a time of high fertility. Women who do not plan to conceive should avoid sexual intercourse during this phase, which can serve as an effective method of preventing unintended pregnancy.
It should be noted that none of these emergency methods are 100% safe or reliable. To prevent unintended pregnancy, it is strongly recommended to use appropriate and consistent contraceptive methods during sexual activity.
