Emergency Contraception
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If you have had sex without using contraception, or think that your contraception might have failed, taking emergency contraception will usually prevent a pregnancy.
If you want emergency contraception don't delay - see someone as soon as possible. You can get emergency contraception from:
There are two types of emergency contraception available - they are the Emergency Contraceptive Pill (ECP), or the Intra Uterine Device (IUD).
Emergency Contraceptive Pill (ECP)
The ECP is sometimes known as the "morning after pill", but this is misleading because it can be used up to three days (72 hours) after sex. However, the sooner it is taken after unprotected sex, the more effective it will be. The emergency contraceptive pill is a progestogen only pill. The ECP can be used more than once.
How does it work?
It prevents pregnancy by
- Preventing the passage of sperm through a womans genital system
- Delaying the release of an egg from the ovary until sperm are no longer active
How do I take them?
You are given the pill to be taken in one or two doses. It should be started within 72 hours of unprotected sex (the first 24 hours if possible). Timing is very important. Some women feel sick after taking the ECP. It helps to take it with food. Tell your health professional if you are taking any other medication because you may need extra pills.
If you vomit within three hours of taking the emergency contraceptive pill you will need another dose. Contact your health professional.
What happens next?
Your period will probably come at the expected time, or it may be early or late. Sometimes it is heavier than usual. If:
- You do not get your period at all
- Your period is very light
- You are worried that you may be pregnant
- Your period is more painful than usual
Then: You should have a pregnancy test, three to four weeks after you had the ECP.
Click here for information on Pregnancy Testing.
The IUD - Intra Uterine Device
The IUD can be used up to five days after ovulation (when the egg will have been fertilised). An IUD is a small piece of plastic with copper wire wrapped around it that is put into a woman's uterus (womb), by a doctor, to prevent pregnancy.
How does it work?
The IUD prevents the egg from implanting into the uterus.
Where do I get it?
The IUD needs to be inserted by an experienced doctor. Many Family Planning doctors are trained to do this - or you can ask your own doctor. The IUD is not suitable for some women, particularly if there is a risk of a Sexually Transmissible Infection, so you may need to discuss this with the doctor.
What happens next?
You will be given detailed instructions on caring for your IUD when it is inserted and will need to have a check up a few weeks after insertion. Some women use an IUD as an ongoing form of contraception, so this may be an option, or you may choose to have it removed after the risk of pregnancy has passed. A doctor will need to remove the IUD. If the IUD was used as emergency contraception after unprotected sex, you may need to have a pregnancy test three to four weeks after you had the IUD inserted.
Click here for information on Pregnancy Testing.