I Took Emergency Contraception and Got a Positive Pregnancy Test. Is This Possible?
Published: January 28, 2021 · Last reviewed on this site: 2026-10-30
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The question
Dear TeenHealthFX,
My boyfriend and I had unprotected sex. I took ipill within 48 hrs but missed my period. I took the pregnancy test and it's positive. Is this possible, after taking pill can you get pregnant?
Signed: TeenHealthFX
The answer
Yes, it is possible to still get pregnant after taking emergency contraception (EC). EC such as Plan B is a mega dose of the estrogen hormone to prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg cell. If an egg cell is not released, then pregnancy cannot occur. [Plan B is only 89% effective in preventing pregnancy when taken with 72 hours of failed or unprotected sexual intercourse and only if an egg has not been released already. If an egg cell has already been released, it will not prevent pregnancy from occurring.
Unfortunately, TeenHealthFX cannot diagnose over the internet. However, since you mention you missed your period and got a positive pregnancy test, we strongly recommend reaching out to a parent or trusted adult and getting checked out by a doctor as soon as possible. He/She will be able to give you a definite answer and let you know your next steps. We have a resource page [Could I Be Pregnant that will be helpful as well answer additional questions you may have.
If you need help finding a doctor and live in northern New Jersey, you can call the [Adolescent/Young Adult Center for Health at 973-971-5199 for an appointment with an adolescent medicine specialist. Good luck!