Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception is a method used to prevent an undesired pregnancy after a woman has had sex without birth control.  It can also be used if th e current birth control method fails or if she is raped.  There are two forms of emergency contraception: emergency contraceptive pills and the copper intrauterine device.  There are three types of emergency contraceptive pills: 1)progestin only pills 2) combination pills 3)ulipristal.  The most commonly  used method is the progestin only pills.  They are available as a single pill or two pills that are taken 12-24 hours apart. They prevent pregnancy by preventing ovulation.  They are 75% effective in preventing pregnancy.  They are most effective when taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse.  Plan B is a progestin only pill that can be bought at a pharmacy without prescription.  Nausea and vomiting may occur when taking this medication. It may cause your period to be delayed. Other side effects include fatigue, dizziness, abdominal cramping and breast tenderness.  Ulipristal and combination birth control pills are available only by prescription.   These medications are very safe and are not to be used as long term birth control.   Progestin only pills and combination pills do not harm a pregnancy or the health of the baby if you are already pregnant.  You should see a health care provider for a pregnancy test if you have not had a period within a week of when you expect it.

The copper iud most be inserted within 5 days of having unprotected intercourse.  It is 99% effective in preventing pregnancy.

Source: American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists