I Took Emergency Contraception and Got a Positive Pregnancy Test. Is This Possible?
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!
