Question

Emergency contraceptives are effective if used within
A. 72 hrs of coitus.
B. 72 hrs of ovulation.
C. 72 hrs of menstruation.
D. 72 hrs of implantation.

Answer 1

Emergency contraceptive is a method that prevents occurrence of fertilization or ovulation. There are many different drugs namely mifepristone, ulipristal, levonorgestrel and high dosage control pills that prevent the fertilization These works most effectively if used within 5 days after the act of sexual intercourse.

Complete answer:
Option B is incorrect because simply ovulation has nothing to do with the pregnancy unless and until the coitus i.e. sexual intercourse occurs. Ovulation is the release of the egg in the female reproductive system and pregnancy occurs if this egg gets fertilized by the male sperms.
Option C is incorrect because menstruation does not lead to pregnancy as no fertilization happens and it only happens when the male sperm and female egg get united after sexual intercourse.
Option D is also incorrect because emergency contraceptives are least effective if the implantation already occurs in the wombs of the mother. It should be taken within the 72 hrs of the sexual intercourse to avoid the pregnancy.
Option A is correct because the fertilization occurs after 24 to 48 hours of sexual intercourse and implantation takes place after 6-7 days. If the contraceptive sex pills are taken after 72 hours they will not be effective and thus, pills should be taken within the 72 hrs of coitus.

Hence, the correct answer is option (A).

Note: Emergency contraception (EC) is helpful in preventing up to over 95 percent of pregnancies if used within 5 days after sexual intercourse. EC pills are used in the different situations as unprotected sex, in case like contraceptive failure, wrong use of other contraceptives and in rape cases where sexual assault happens, without contraception.