Emergency Contraception

What is emergency contraception?

It’s used to avoid pregnancy if you have recently has sexual intercourse without any birth control measures. Usually used in situations like

If has missed taking the birth control pills
If the condom has broken or slipped
If no birth control measures were taken during intercourse
In cases of rape

What are the methods for Emergency Contraception?

There are two options for emergency contraception
Pills
Intrauterine Copper Device (IUD)
The IUD needs to be put by a doctor within 5 days of unprotected intercourse and will work as emergency contraception and provide ongoing contraception after insertion.

There are three types of pill that can work as emergency contraception

Pills containing a hormone called “Levonogestrel” which are usually available at the chemists. Brands available in India are Unwanted 72, I- Pill, Clr- 72, Preventol. This needs to be taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse.
Birth control pills can also be used as emergency contraception, but more than one tablets need to be taken. This method is more likely to cause nausea and is less effective than other methods.
The third kind of pill is Ulipristal and it can be taken within 5 days of unprotected intercourse. You will need a prescription for this from your doctor.

What happens to your period cycle after Emergency contraception pill?

You should get your period within a week of when you expect your cycle. You may get your cycles earlier or there may be some spotting between two cycles.

When should you connect with your doctor?

If you don’t get a period within 3 to 4 weeks of taking emergency contraception you need to visit the doctor to check for pregnancy as the methods have not worked for you.

If you keep bleeding or have pain in your abdomen In case there is vomiting after the consumption of the pill, your doctor will help you to know if a repeat dose is required.