Emergency contraception is a method of birth control used after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It works by preventing or delaying ovulation, fertilization, or implantation of the fertilized egg. There are different types of emergency contraception, including pills and copper IUDs. Emergency contraception should be used immediately after unprotected sex to maximize its effectiveness. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections and should not be used as a regular form of birth control.

What is emergency contraception?

Emergency contraception is a method of birth control that, unlike other forms, can be taken after sexual intercourse. It should not be confused with medication used to terminate a pregnancy, as it has no effect if you are already pregnant. Unlike the MTP kit, emergency contraception does not induce abortion.

While emergency contraception can be effective, it should not be relied on as a regular method of birth control. Regular contraception is more reliable, has fewer adverse effects, and is less expensive. As the name suggests, emergency contraception should only be used in emergencies and not as a routine method.

Mode of contraception 

There are various options available for emergency contraception, with most being pills commonly referred to as the "morning-after" pill. The number of pills you will need depends on the brand and dosage of the emergency contraception pills. These options include:

• Hormone-based emergency contraception pills containing levonorgestrel. These pills are specially formulated for emergency contraception and are available without a prescription. Examples of levonorgestrel pills include Plan B One-Step, Preventeza, My Way, and Take Action.
• Ulipristal acetate (Ella) pill, which is a non-hormonal pill that contains ulipristal. It works by blocking the effects of essential hormones needed for conception. This pill is only available by prescription.
• Birth control pills can also serve as emergency contraception. However, taking multiple pills at once is necessary to prevent pregnancy, which is less effective and more likely to cause nausea than levonorgestrel pills. Talk to your doctor before taking regular birth control pills to ensure you are taking the correct pills and dosage.
• Copper-T intrauterine device (IUD), which can function as emergency contraception. The IUD must be inserted by a nurse or doctor within five days of having sex. This method works both as emergency contraception and ongoing birth control, preventing pregnancy for as long as it remains in place.

How does emergency contraception work?

Emergency contraception primarily works by preventing or delaying ovulation. Hormonal emergency contraception, like levonorgestrel pills, may temporarily inhibit the release of eggs to prevent pregnancy.

Ella works by inhibiting the effects of critical hormones necessary for conception.

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) prevent implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus to prevent pregnancy.

How long after having sex will emergency contraception still work?

The effectiveness of emergency contraception depends on how quickly you take it after having sex. Research indicates that taking emergency contraception within 72 hours of intercourse reduces the risk of pregnancy to only 1% to 2%.

Your timing in your menstrual cycle also plays a significant role in the effectiveness of emergency contraception. If you have sex during your fertile window, delaying the use of emergency contraception for several days may reduce its effectiveness. Therefore, it's best to take it as soon as possible after sex to increase its efficacy.

You don't have to wait until the next morning after unprotected sex to take the morning-after pill. The effectiveness of emergency contraception pills is maximized when they are taken as soon as possible after unprotected sexual intercourse. The timeframe in which emergency contraception pills can be effective may vary depending on the medication used.

For progestin-only pills like Plan B One-Step, the effectiveness of the medication diminishes the longer you wait, and typically, you have a three-day window when the pill will still be effective. However, if you take this medication within five days of unprotected sex, it can still be moderately effective.

Ulipristal, the other type of emergency contraception pill, is more effective for a longer period of time. It can be effective up to five days after unprotected sex.

Combined birth control pills that contain both progestin and estrogen can also be used as emergency contraception up to five days after intercourse. However, there can be variations between different brands of birth control pills, so it's recommended to discuss the exact timing and dosage with your healthcare provider.

What are the side effects of the morning-after pill?

The morning-after pill typically has mild side effects, and many people experience no serious symptoms. Common side effects can include 

• changes to your menstrual cycle, such as an earlier or later period than usual,
• light bleeding or spotting, 
• nausea, 
• vomiting, 
• fatigue, 
• headaches, 
• dizziness, and 
• breast or abdominal pain. 

If you experience more severe symptoms or have concerns about taking the morning-after pill, it's important to contact your healthcare provider.

Who can use emergency contraception?

Emergency contraception is suitable for any woman or girl of reproductive age who wishes to avoid an unintended pregnancy. There are no medical restrictions on the use of emergency contraception, and age limits do not apply. The same eligibility criteria for using a copper intrauterine device (IUD) as a regular birth control method also apply to using it as emergency contraception.

How effective is the abortion pill?

The effectiveness of the morning-after pill in preventing pregnancy depends on the time frame in which it is taken. It is crucial to consider the time factor for the medication to work optimally. Contrary to the name "morning-after pill," there is no need to wait until the next day to take the medication.

Each type of morning-after pill has a specific time frame for optimal effectiveness. The progestin-only option should be taken within 72 hours (three days) of having unprotected sex, while the ulipristal and combined options can be taken up to 120 hours (five days) after intercourse. It is worth noting that all forms of emergency contraception are most effective when taken as early as possible.

Is there bleeding after taking the morning-after pill?

After taking the morning-after pill, some individuals may experience light bleeding, also known as spotting. While this does not occur in everyone who takes the pill, it is typically not a cause for concern. However, if the bleeding is heavier than usual or occurs after a missed period, it may be a good idea to consult a healthcare provider. This type of bleeding could potentially be implantation bleeding, which occurs when the embryo attaches itself to the lining of the uterus during early fetal development.

Which type of emergency contraception is best for me?

There are various options for emergency contraception, and the ideal one for you will depend on several factors. Age is a consideration, as some over-the-counter products may have age restrictions. Additionally, your insurance may only cover specific types.

The timing of sexual activity can also be relevant, as some products are effective for up to three days while others work for five days. Body weight may also play a role.

Recent research suggests that Plan B One Step may start to become less effective in women who weigh more than 165 pounds and is not recommended for those above this weight. In such cases, a copper IUD is recommended instead, as it tends to work better than emergency contraceptive pills for heavier women.

The copper IUD is the most effective form of emergency contraception and may also serve as a long-term birth control option. A medical professional is required to insert and remove the device if you choose to have children in the future.

Takeaway 

Emergency contraception is a safe and effective option for preventing unintended pregnancies after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It works by preventing or delaying ovulation, fertilization, or implantation of the fertilized egg. 

There are different types of emergency contraception available, and it is important to use them as soon as possible after unprotected sex to maximize their effectiveness. However, emergency contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted infections and should not be used as a regular form of birth control. If you have any questions or concerns about emergency contraception, consult your healthcare provider.