Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception (EC), also known as the morning-after pill, is a type of birth control that can be used by women who have had unprotected sex or used a birth control method that failed. The EC pill can prevent pregnancy if taken within 72 hours of sexual intercourse. The sooner the pill is taken, the more effective it is.

Types of Emergency Contraception

There are two types of EC available: Levonorgestrel (Plan B One-Step, Take Action, Next Choice One Dose, My Way) and Ulipristal Acetate (ella).

Levonorgestrel

Levonorgestrel is a synthetic hormone that prevents pregnancy by stopping the release of an egg from the ovary or preventing fertilization of the egg by sperm. It can be purchased over the counter without a prescription.

Ulipristal Acetate

Ulipristal Acetate is a non-hormonal drug that affects the hormone progesterone, which is necessary for pregnancy. It requires a prescription and is taken as a single pill within 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex or birth control failure.

Effectiveness

The effectiveness of EC depends on the time it is taken after unprotected sex. Levonorgestrel reduces the risk of pregnancy by 89% when taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex. Ulipristal Acetate is 85% effective when taken within 120 hours after unprotected sex.

Side Effects

Common side effects of EC pills include nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, headache, and menstrual changes. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own.

Considerations

EC should not be used as a regular form of birth control. It is intended for occasional use, in emergency situations. Women who need to prevent pregnancy on a regular basis should consider other forms of birth control.

See Also

• Birth Control
• Unprotected Sex
• Pregnancy

Emergency Contraception Resources
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