Emergency contraceptive pills

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are a method of contraception that can be used by women after unprotected or coerced sexual intercourse, contraceptive failure (such as condom breakage), or incorrect use of regular contraception to significantly reduce the risk of unwanted pregnancy. Although the pills are sometimes referred to as “morning-after pills” or “postcoital contraception,they can be taken up to five days after unprotected intercourse.

 They are more effective, however, if taken sooner. Emergency contraceptive pills are intended for emergencies or as contraceptive backup rather than as an ongoing, primary method of contraception. Emergency contraceptive pills contain the hormones found in oral contraceptive pills – either progestin only or progestin plus estrogen – but in higher doses.In several countries, ECPs are available as dedicated products packaged specifically as emergency contraception. Alternatively, standard oral contraceptive pills can be taken in modified dosages.

Emergency contraceptive pills are usually taken in two doses:one as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse and a second one 12 hours later. However, recent study results indicate that a taking both doses of a progestin, or levonorgestrel, product can substitute for two doses 12 hours apart.Depending on the formulation used, ECPs reduce the risk of pregnancy from a single act of intercourse by up to 85 percent if the first dose is taken within 72 hours (three days) of intercourse.Some research suggests that ECPs are more effective the sooner after intercourse they are taken. Additional research indicates that they continue to offer some protection if taken up to 120 hours (five days) after intercourse.

Emergency contraceptive pills are safe for all women. Because ECPs are used on a temporary basis, the contraindications that accompany standard oral contraceptive pills and many other methods of hormonal contraception do not apply. Emergency contraceptive pills should not be given to women who are already pregnant, only because they will not be effective. Emergency contraceptive pills are not associated with any long-term or serious side effects. Women who use them may experience nausea and vomiting, but these side effects usually subside within a few
days. The risk of nausea and vomiting is much lower for women who take the progestin-only ECP formulation. Other possible but less common side effects include fatigue, headache, dizziness, menstrual disturbances, and breast tenderness.

Read more:

Tips about birth control(or contraception)

How to use Emergency contraception