If it is an emergency contraceptive pill, then taking one after the fact is sufficient. However, if it is a short-acting contraceptive pill or a long-acting contraceptive pill, taking one is definitely not enough. The timing of taking contraceptives also differs depending on the type. Commonly, short-acting oral contraceptives are taken on the fifth day of menstruation, visitor contraceptives are taken 8 hours before intercourse, and postcoital contraceptives are taken within 24 hours.

1. Is it effective to take one contraceptive pill?

First, we need to determine what type of contraceptive pill is being taken. If it is an emergency contraceptive pill, then taking one after the fact is sufficient. The effectiveness of one emergency contraceptive pill is quite strong, with a 99% success rate in preventing pregnancy. However, if it is a short-acting contraceptive pill or a long-acting contraceptive pill, taking one is definitely not enough. Short-acting contraceptives must be taken continuously for more than 7 days before they will have contraceptive effects, while long-acting contraceptives require a longer duration of use. Generally, the decision to take contraceptives depends on the situation. If there is frequent sexual activity and one does not want to use a condom, the best contraceptive option is to take short-acting contraceptives, which are taken daily. Short-acting contraceptives have the fewest side effects compared to emergency contraceptives and long-acting contraceptives. Among the three types of contraceptives, emergency contraceptives have the most significant side effects and thus the greatest potential harm to women's health.

2. When is it most effective to take contraceptives?

The timing of taking contraceptives depends on the specific type:

1. For couples who live together and have a regular lifestyle, it is recommended to take short-acting oral contraceptives, such as contraceptive pill number 1 or number 2. These pills are taken daily starting from the fifth day of menstruation, with one pill taken each day for 22 days.

2. For couples who live together but have an irregular lifestyle and cannot take contraceptives daily, long-acting oral contraceptives may be a better option. These contraceptives, such as compound 18-methyl norethindrone, are taken once on the fifth day of menstruation, followed by a second dose 20 days later. After that, a pill is taken once a month.

3. For couples who live separately and meet infrequently, visitor contraceptives can be used. These contraceptives, such as visitor pill number 1, are taken 8 hours before intercourse and then once every night until the visit ends. An additional dose is taken the morning after the last intercourse. These contraceptives are not suitable for long-term use.

4. For women who experience gastrointestinal discomfort from oral contraceptives, injectable contraceptives may be an option.

5. In cases where other contraceptive methods have failed or in cases of rape, postcoital contraceptives can be taken within 24 hours, such as 50 milligrams of ethinyl estradiol taken for five consecutive days.