The Complete Guide To Emergency Contraception: How To Avoid Pregnancy After Unprotected Sex
What is emergency contraception?
Emergency contraception (EC) is a way to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. There are a few different types of EC available, each with its own set of instructions and effectiveness rates. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about how to avoid pregnancy after sex and emergency contraception, including how it works, when to use it, and how to get it.
What is emergency contraception?
Emergency contraception (EC) is a type of birth control used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. EC works by either preventing or delaying ovulation, preventing fertilization of the egg by the sperm, or preventing the implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus.
When should I use emergency contraception?
EC should be used as soon as possible after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It is most effective when taken within the first 24 hours after intercourse, but can still be effective up to 5 days (120 hours) after sex, depending on the type of EC used.
- What are the different types of emergency contraception?
There are three main types of EC available:
- Copper Intrauterine Device (IUD): A small, T-shaped device that is inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. This type of EC is the most effective and can be used up to 5 days after sex. It can also be used as long-term contraception.
- Progestin-only pill (POP): A pill containing the hormone progestin that is taken within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex. It is less effective than the copper IUD but is widely available over the counter.
- Ulipristal acetate pill: A pill that is taken within 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex. It is more effective than the POP but requires a prescription from a healthcare provider.
How do I use emergency contraception?
The instructions for using EC will vary depending on the type of EC you use. However, here are some general guidelines:
- Copper IUD: You must have it inserted by a healthcare provider within 5 days after unprotected sex.
- Progestin-only pill: Take one pill as soon as possible within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex. If you vomit within 2 hours of taking the pill, you will need to take another dose.
- Ulipristal acetate pill: Take one pill as soon as possible within 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex. If you vomit within 3 hours of taking the pill, you will need to take another dose.
What are the possible side effects of emergency contraception?
how to avoid pregnancy after sex The side effects of EC will vary depending on the type of EC used. However, some common side effects include nausea, vomiting, headaches, dizziness, and breast tenderness. These side effects are usually mild and go away on their own.
How effective is emergency contraception?
The effectiveness of EC will vary depending on the type of EC used and when it is taken. The copper IUD is the most effective type of EC, with a failure rate of less than 1%. The progestin-only pill and ulipristal acetate pill are less effective, with failure rates of up to 2% and 1%, respectively.
Can emergency contraception protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)? No, emergency contraception does not protect against STIs. If you have had unprotected sex, it is important to get tested for STIs.
Where can I get emergency contraception?
EC is available at most pharmacies and healthcare providers. The progestin-only pill is available over-the-counter, but the copper IUD and ulipristal acetate pill require a prescription from a healthcare provider.
Conclusion
Emergency contraception is an important option for preventing pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. There are three main types of EC available, including the copper IUD, progestin-only pill, and ulipristal acetate pill. The copper IUD is the most effective type of EC, while the progestin-only pill and ulipristal acetate pill are less effective but more widely available. It is important to use EC as soon as possible after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure and to understand the instructions for use and possible side effects. EC does not protect against STIs, so it is important to get tested if you have had unprotected sex. EC is available at most pharmacies and healthcare providers, with the progestin-only pill available over the counter and the copper IUD and ulipristal acetate pill requiring a prescription from a healthcare provider. While EC is an important option for preventing pregnancy, it is not intended for regular use and should not be used as a substitute for regular contraception.
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