Emergency contraception is a method used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. Many women use it in situations where their regular contraceptive method doesn’t work, such as when a condom breaks, they miss a pill, or they have unprotected sex. But what exactly is emergency contraception, and how does it work? Let’s explore the details.
What Is Emergency Contraception?
Emergency contraception is a way to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. It is designed to be used as a backup when regular contraception fails or is not used. The most common form of emergency contraception is the emergency contraception pill, which is sometimes referred to as the “morning-after pill”.
There are two main types of emergency contraception pills:
- Levonorgestrel-based pill: This is the most widely used emergency contraceptive pill and works best when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex.
- Ulipristal acetate: This pill is more effective than levonorgestrel, especially when taken later after unprotected sex.
Both of these pills are effective at preventing pregnancy, but they work differently from regular birth control methods.
Morning After Pill Explained: How It Works to Prevent Pregnancy
The emergency contraception pill works by delaying or preventing ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary). If the egg has already been released and fertilisation has occurred, it may also prevent the fertilised egg from attaching to the lining of the uterus.
Here’s how the emergency contraception pill works in more detail:
- Delaying ovulation: If ovulation hasn’t occurred yet, the pill can delay the release of the egg, preventing fertilisation.
- Preventing fertilisation: If ovulation has already occurred, the pill may make it harder for sperm to fertilise the egg by affecting the movement of the sperm.
- Preventing implantation: In some cases, if fertilisation has occurred, the pill may alter the uterine lining, making it less likely for the fertilised egg to implant and develop.
It’s important to note that emergency contraception will not work if the fertilised egg has already implanted in the uterus. It is only effective before implantation occurs.
How Soon Should You Take the Morning-After Pill?
The sooner you take the emergency contraception pill, the more effective it will be. It is recommended to take it within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex for the levonorgestrel-based pill and within 120 hours (5 days) for ulipristal acetate. However, the effectiveness decreases the longer you wait to take it.
Emergency contraception is not intended for regular use. It should only be used in emergencies when your usual contraception method has failed.
When Should You Use Emergency Contraception?
Emergency contraception is used in situations where:
- Contraceptive failure: For example, if a condom breaks or slips off, or if you miss a dose of your regular contraceptive method.
- Unprotected sex: If you have unprotected sex and want to prevent pregnancy.
Next Steps If You’ve Missed a Pill or Had a Contraceptive Failure
If you need advice on emergency contraception or have questions about its use, book your consultation to talk to our pharmacist today at Pharmacy To My Door. Our pharmacists can guide you in choosing the right contraception method and provide advice on how to use emergency contraception safely and effectively.
