Guide to Emergency Contraception

Guide to Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception is used after sex to prevent pregnancy. It is different from drugs taken to end a pregnancy.

Emergency contraception is used when primary birth control methods have failed (such as a broken condom or missed birth control pills), or in cases of sexual assault or after unprotected sex.

It’s helpful to know the facts about emergency contraception before you need it. Below, we’ll look at some common questions people have when using different types of emergency contraceptive methods.

What Are the Different Types of Emergency Contraceptives?

There are two main types of emergency contraceptives – pills and IUDs.

Emergency Contraceptive Pills

The most common type of emergency contraceptive is a pill. These can be sold with or without a prescription and include:

• Levonorgestrel pills contain a man-made version of the hormone progesterone. They work by delaying ovulation. They typically need to be taken within 72 of sex to be effective and are sold over the counter. Brand name levonorgestrel pills include:

• Levonelle
• Plan B One-Step
• My Way
• Preventeza
• Take Action

• Ulipristal acetate pills are available with a prescription and also work by delaying ovulation. They contain and must be used within 5 days of unprotected sex. Like levonorgestrel pills, the sooner they’re taken, the more effective they’ll be in preventing pregnancy. Brand name ulipristal pills include:
• o   Ella
• o   EllaOne

• Birth control pills: You may be able to modify your regular birth control pills to prevent pregnancy. This should be done under a doctor’s or nurse’s care to get the correct dosage and avoid side effects like nausea.

IUDs as Emergency Contraception

Copper-T IUDs can be used as both emergency contraception and birth control. These small, T-shaped pieces of plastic and copper require an appointment with a healthcare professional because they need to be inserted into your uterus. When inserted within five days of unprotected sex, they are the most effective form of emergency contraception. Copper IUDs work by preventing the egg from being fertilized or implanting into the womb.

Only 1% of people who use an IUD for emergency contraception get pregnant. It is the most effective method of preventing pregnancy after unprotected sex.

Insertion of an IUD only takes a few minutes. It is not a painful procedure, but it is often compared to the feeling of getting a pap smear. You will not be able to feel the IUD once it is implanted.

What Will I Feel Like After Using Emergency Contraception?

Most people don’t experience side effects after using emergency contraception. However, if you do, they should subside within a few days.

The most common side effects of the morning-after pill include:  

• Cramps
• Headache
• Nausea and vomiting
• Stomach pain
• Breast tenderness
• Dizziness
• Fatigue

It’s important to note that severe stomach pain after using emergency contraception could be a medical emergency and a sight of an ectopic pregnancy. Call your doctor if you experience pain severe pain in your belly.

The use of emergency contraception can also affect your period or menstrual cycle in the following weeks after use. For example:

• You may experience an early or late period after using emergency contraception. (You should take a pregnancy test if your period is late.)
• Your next period may also be heavier or lighter than usual. (Contact a doctor if you feel your period is unusually heavy.)
• You may have spotting between your periods in the weeks after taking emergency birth control.

How Can I Avoid the Side Effects of Emergency Contraceptive Use?

Mild side effects can often be eased at home using items available over the counter. However, patients should read all warning materials to ensure they do not interfere with other medications before use.

If you experience headaches or cramping after using emergency contraception, consider using a non-prescription painkiller such as ibuprofen or naproxen for 24 to 48 hours. (Pain that persists should be discussed with a medical professional.)

Talk to your doctor if you experience severe pain after using emergency contraception.

Nausea and upset stomach can often be alleviated by eating smaller meals throughout the day or anti-nausea medication. However, if you vomit within a few hours of using emergency contraception pills, you should talk to a doctor about the possibility of needing another dose.

What Else Should I Know About Using Emergency Contraceptives?

Emergency contraception can prevent over 95% of unintended pregnancies when used within five days of intercourse.

Side effects of emergency contraception are not a sign of illness. They should be mild to moderate in nature and subside within 48 hours. If they do not, you may want to speak to a medical professional about any ongoing pain or menstrual issues.

If you weigh over 165 pounds, some (but not all) emergency contraceptive pills may need to be administered in higher doses or substituted for a copper IUD. Speak to a medical professional and share these details so they can advise you about the best option.

If your period is more than one week late following the administration of emergency contraception, you should take a pregnancy test.

Emergency contraceptive pills are not an alternative to ongoing birth control. You should consult a physician about the best ongoing contraception for your specific situation. If you have a copper IUD implanted as emergency contraception, this will continue to act as birth control for up to 10 years or until you have it removed by a doctor.

Misinformation about future fertility after emergency contraception is common, even in sources that are typically seen as reliable. However, using emergency birth control does not affect future fertility.

Emergency contraception does not help protect you from STDs. If you are concerned that you may have been exposed to an STD during unprotected sex, a failed condom, or a sexual assault, speak to a medical professional about getting tested.