What it is?
Emergency contraception can be used after unprotected sex or if your contraception has failed. There are two types of emergency contraception:
- Intrauterine device (IUD) Can be used up to 5 days after unprotected sex
- Emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) Can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex
These methods of emergency contraception prevent pregnancy from occurring.
For more information on the IUD click on the link.
Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECP) or ‘Morning After Pill’.
How it works?
The emergency contraceptive pill, also known as ‘the morning after pill’, should be taken within three days (72 hours) of having unprotected sex. It is more effective the sooner it is taken.
Emergency contraception can prevent:
- Ovulation (an egg being released)
- An egg being fertilised
- The egg from implanting in the uterus
Advantages
- Does not affect future fertility
- You can purchase the ECP from the pharmacist without seeing a nurse/ doctor
Disadvantages
Does not protect against STIs and you may experience side effects such as:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Dizziness
- Headaches
- Breast tenderness
- Abdominal pain
- Irregular bleeding
- Fluid retention
Side effects are rare but if they do occur, they usually disappear within 1-2 days.
How effective is it?
The IUD is more effective than the ECPs with a success rate of 99%.
If taken correctly the emergency contraceptive pills are very effective. If taken within 24 hours the ECP is 90-95% effective.
What makes it less effective?
- Delay in taking the pill after unprotected sex
- Vomiting within 2 hours of taking the pill
- Having unprotected sex after taking the pill
If vomiting occurs within 2 hours of taking the pill then you should seek advice from a doctor or nurse.
