What can be used as emergency contraception?

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the following emergency contraceptive pill regimens:Ulipristal AcetateLevonorgestrelCombined Oral Contraceptives (COCs) which include ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel

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23-08-2024 Team Medicover general-medicine

Understanding Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception (EC) is a helpful option for preventing pregnancy after unprotected sex or when birth control fails. Even though it’s important for reproductive health, many people are unsure about how it works or what side effects it may have.

This article explains emergency contraception in simple terms, covering how it works, available methods, their effectiveness, and possible side effects or risks.

What is Emergency Contraception?

Emergency contraception refers to methods used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. It is not meant for regular use but acts as a backup when standard birth control methods fail or aren’t used.

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Methods of Emergency Contraception

There are two main emergency contraception methods:

Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECPs)
Copper Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECPs)

ECPs are oral medications designed to prevent pregnancy when taken shortly after unprotected sex. They are not intended for regular use and should not replace conventional birth control methods. There are two main types of ECPs:

Levonorgestrel-based Pills: These are available over-the-counter and should be taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse. They are most effective when taken as soon as possible after the event.
Ulipristal Acetate Pills: Available by prescription, these pills can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex and are also more effective when taken earlier.

Copper IUDs

Copper IUDs are small, T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. When used as emergency contraception, they must be inserted within five days of unprotected sex. Copper IUDs are highly effective and can also serve as a long-term birth control method for up to 10 years.

How Does Emergency Contraception Work?

ECPs delay or inhibit ovulation, reducing the chance of an egg being fertilized. Ulipristal acetate may also change the uterine lining to prevent implantation.
Copper IUDs release copper ions that are toxic to sperm, preventing fertilization and possibly implantation.

Effectiveness of Emergency Contraception

Levonorgestrel Pills: Up to 89% effective when taken within 72 hours.
Ulipristal Acetate Pills: Around 85% effective when taken within 120 hours.
Copper IUDs: Over 99% effective when inserted within five days.

Side Effects of Emergency Contraceptive Pills

While ECPs are generally safe they can cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects include:

Nausea and Vomiting : These are the most frequently reported side effects. Taking the pill with food or an anti-nausea medication can help mitigate these symptoms.
Fatigue : Some users may experience tiredness after taking ECPs.
Headache : Mild to moderate headaches are reported by some individuals.
Dizziness : This can occur, especially when taken on an empty stomach.
Breast tenderness: Some users may experience soreness or discomfort in their breasts.
Menstrual changes: ECPs can cause temporary changes in menstrual cycles, like irregular bleeding or a delayed period.

Risks of Emergency Contraception

While emergency contraception is safe for most individuals, there are some risks to be aware of:

Ectopic pregnancy: Although rare there is a slight increase in the risk of ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy outside the uterus) with the use of ECPs.
Allergic reactions: Some individuals may have allergic reactions to the ingredients in ECPs.
Repeated use: Frequent use of ECPs is not recommended as a regular birth control method due to potential hormonal imbalances and decreased effectiveness over time.
Emergency contraception damage: Long-term or frequent use may raise concerns about emergency contraception damage, such as disruptions to hormonal balance or menstrual irregularities, though these are usually temporary and reversible.

Using an Emergency Contraception Calculator

An emergency contraception calculator helps guide decisions after unprotected sex.
It uses details like the date of intercourse and menstrual cycle.
The tool gives personalized recommendations on the type and timing of emergency contraception.
It can help choose between emergency contraceptive pills or a copper IUD.
It supports timely action to improve effectiveness of emergency contraception.

Emergency Contraception vs Regular Birth Control

Regular birth control (e.g., pills, condoms, IUDs) is used consistently to prevent pregnancy. Emergency contraception is only used occasionally, after unprotected sex or failure of regular methods.

Consulting a healthcare provider ensures you choose the most suitable long-term birth control and have access to emergency options when needed.

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Conclusion

Emergency contraception is a vital tool in reproductive health, offering a safety net for preventing unintended pregnancies after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. Understanding the different options available their effectiveness and potential side effects can help individuals make informed decisions about their reproductive health.

Ulipristal Acetate
Levonorgestrel
Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs) which include ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel

Frequently Asked Questions

Plan B is an emergency contraception pill that should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, ideally within three days. It remains effective up to five days after intercourse, though its effectiveness decreases over time.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the following emergency contraceptive pill regimens:

Morning-after pills have been used safely by millions of people for over 30 years, with no reports of serious complications. They do not cause long-term side effects and do not affect future fertility.

No emergency contraception is not the same as abortion. It prevents pregnancy from occurring but does not terminate an existing pregnancy. Abortion involves ending a pregnancy after it has been established.

Yes, you can, but it’s not recommended as a regular method. Frequent use may disrupt your menstrual cycle and reduce effectiveness.

Levonorgestrel pills (like Plan B) are available over the counter, but ulipristal acetate pills (like Ella) require a prescription.

Emergency contraception is safe for most people and does not cause permanent damage. However frequent use may lead to hormonal imbalances or temporary menstrual changes. For personalized advice, consult a specialist at Medicover Hospital.