Emergency Contraceptive Pill (Commonly Known as the Morning-After Pill)

The emergency contraceptive pill is a method to prevent unintended pregnancy. It is mainly used by women who have had unprotected sex, such as not using any contraceptive methods, missing a dose of birth control pills, or when contraception fails (e.g., a condom breaking or slipping out of the vagina). It serves as a backup measure. Most women can take emergency contraceptive pills without adverse effects on their bodies.

The primary mechanism involves an additional hormone supplement that disrupts the natural hormonal fluctuations, affecting the regular ovulation cycle by suppressing or delaying ovulation, thereby reducing the chances of sperm meeting the egg. Additionally, the morning-after pill can alter the uterine lining environment, preventing the fertilized egg from implanting successfully in the uterus to achieve contraceptive effects. It may also change the cervical mucus secretion, making it thicker, which hinders sperm mobility and reduces the likelihood of sperm and egg meeting.

There are two main types of emergency contraceptive pills: “Progestin-only” and “Progesterone Receptor Modulator,” with the primary difference being the time frame for taking them.

Progestin-Only

  • Most effective when taken within 72 hours (3 days) after intercourse.
  • The later you take it, the higher the failure rate.
  • Failure rate is about 2-3%.
  • Side effects may include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, menstrual pain, abdominal pain, back pain, and breast tenderness.
  • If the emergency contraception fails and pregnancy occurs, it does not harm the fetus.
  • Does not affect breastfeeding.
  • Does not interfere with the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptive methods.

Progesterone Receptor Modulator

  • Can be taken within 120 hours (5 days) after intercourse.
  • Timing of administration does not affect effectiveness.
  • Failure rate is about 1-2%.
  • Side effects may include headache, nausea, dizziness, fatigue, menstrual pain, abdominal pain, back pain, and breast tenderness.
  • There is not enough scientific data to determine whether it affects the fetus.
  • After taking it, you should stop breastfeeding for 7 days.
  • Taking this medication may reduce the effectiveness of hormonal contraceptive methods.

We emphasize again that emergency contraceptive pills should only be used as a backup measure and not as a long-term contraceptive tool. Taking it more than once in the same menstrual cycle can burden a woman’s body and may seriously disrupt the menstrual cycle.

Where Can I Get It If I Need It?

You can obtain it from private clinics, the Family Planning Association, youth health centers, and Maternal and Child Health Centres under the Department of Health. The emergency contraceptive pill must be prescribed by a doctor before use.

What to Expect During Your Visit with a Healthcare Professional:

  • They will ask you questions about your medical and family history.
  • You will need to inform the healthcare provider about the time of your last unprotected sexual activity so the doctor can prescribe the appropriate medication.
  • You should also inform them of any other medications you are currently taking to ensure they do not interfere with the pill’s effectiveness.

Important Notes:

  1. Even after taking the emergency contraceptive pill, you should take a pregnancy test 7-14 days after your last unprotected sexual activity to confirm whether you are pregnant.
  2. After taking the emergency contraceptive pill, your menstrual flow is usually not affected, and your period should arrive on the expected date. However, sometimes your period may come earlier or later than expected.
  3. If you vomit within three hours of taking the emergency contraceptive pill, contact your healthcare provider immediately for a re-dose.
  4. All emergency contraceptive pills are prescription medications and cannot be purchased directly from a pharmacy.

 

Other Emergency Contraceptive Methods

The copper IUD can be used as an emergency contraceptive method. It must be inserted by a healthcare professional within five days of unprotected sexual activity. Once inserted, it is immediately effective.