Emergency Contraception: How Does It Work & Effectiveness

Suppose you’ve had unprotected sex or your condom just split, and pregnancy is the last thing on your mind. Then, in that case, you have come to the right post. First things is do not worry, there are many ways you can prevent pregnancy if you take the right actions at the right time. Like any form of birth control, Emergency contraceptives help you not get pregnant if you take them within three or five days of having sex with your partner, depending on the brand of medication. One thing that has to be kept in mind is that it does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. 

How Does Emergency Contraception Work?

Emergency contraceptive pills prevent pregnancy by preventing or delaying ovulation. It is important to understand they do not induce an abortion, so if you are already pregnant, then see your GP. Emergency contraception cannot interrupt an established pregnancy or harm a developing embryo. Unfortunately, many women are unaware of emergency contraception, misunderstand its use and safety, or do not use it when a need arises.

When Do I Use Emergency Contraception?

You can use emergency contraception in several situations following sexual intercourse. These include:

• If the condom broke and you did not take any contraception.
• Sexual intercourse without any contraception 
• If you wish to keep emergency contraception on standby in the event of unprotected sex

What Types Of Emergency Contraceptive Pills Are Available?

Levonorgestrel (Levonelle) Emergency Contraception

Levonelle (brand name of levonorgestrel) is a pill that works by delaying or stopping the release of an egg (ovulation). As a result, it can prevent sperm from fertilizing an egg. The tablet works best as soon as you can take it after unprotected sex. You can take it up to 72 hours after unprotected sex. Levonelle will not work if you are already pregnant.

If you are using a traditional method of oral contraception, you can carry on taking this at your standard times. However, if you vomit within 3 hours of taking the tablet, you should take another pill.

ellaOne Emergency Contraception

ellaOne works similarly to levonorgestrel by preventing or delaying ovulation but is also effective if taken later in the cycle. The tablet works best if you take it as soon as possible after unprotected sex. You can take it up to 5 days after unprotected sex. You can also take it during your menstrual cycle. If taking regular oral contraception, ellaOne may reduce its effectiveness, so a barrier method (such as condoms) is recommended until your next period.

Copper-Bearing Intrauterine Devices

When used as an emergency contraceptive method, The doctor can insert a copper-bearing IUD within five days of unprotected intercourse. This method is particularly suitable for women who would like to start using a highly effective, long-acting, and reversible contraceptive method. For example, when inserted within 120 hours of unprotected intercourse, a copper-bearing IUD is more than 99% effective in preventing pregnancy. It is the most effective form of emergency contraception available. Once inserted, you can continue to use the IUD as an ongoing method of contraception or may choose to change to another contraceptive method.

What are the Common Side effects of Emergency contraception?

Short-term adverse effects include the following:

• You can feel nauseated, causing you to generate severe headaches. If you vomit within two hours of taking it, you should call your doctor and take their consultation as you would want the pill to settle into your stomach, in which case you may have to take another dosage.
• Irregular bleeding—After emergency contraceptive pill use, the menstrual period usually occurs within one week of the expected time. You can generally experience irregular bleeding or spotting in the week or month after treatment.

Will the Emergency Contraception work if I’m already pregnant?

If you have crossed a specific time limit and feel that you are already pregnant, you should not use any emergency contraceptives as it will not help. If you period has not started or you think you are pregnant carry out a pregnancy  home test then discuss your options with your GP

Will Emergency Contraception Affect My Fertility in the Future?

No. Taking emergency contraception does not affect your ability to have a baby later. If you got an IUD for emergency contraception, a doctor would need to remove it before you can get pregnant.

Does Emergency Contraception Protect Against Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs)?

No, it does not protect you from contracting STIs or STDs such as HIV(AIDS), chlamydia and Gonorrhoea. The best way to protect yourself is to avoid having sexual contact with an infected partner or use latex condoms carefully.

Which type of Emergency Contraception is suited for me?

It depends on various factors such as age and body type. For example, research has suggested that some women with a higher body mass index have less chance of emergency contraception working. For them, the copper IUD can be the best-suggested option and may also be the best long-term birth control. A doctor or nurse needs to put it in and remove it if you decide you want children.

Where can I get Emergency Contraception?

Emergency contraceptives are available from our online clinic with fast delivery. You could also request it from your GP. 

Complete our online consultation and get treatment delivered to your door.

Learn More From The NHS Website