EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION:

WHAT IS EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION?

It is medication taken orally after unprotected sex.  Emergency oral contraception can prevent an unwanted pregnancy and is sometimes called “the morning after pill.”

HOW DOES IT WORK?

• It mainly stops ovulation.

ADVANTAGES.

• It is accessible
• It is affordable
• It can be used whenever it is needed.
• It is effective
• It does not disrupt an existing pregnancy – it does not cause an abortion!

WHEN CAN A WOMAN USE EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION?

A woman can use emergency contraception up to 72 hours after unprotected sex. If more than 72 hours but less than 120 hours lapse after unprotected sex, then she can have an IUCD (loop) inserted.

HOW EFFECTIVE IS EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION?

The sooner emergency contraception is taken after unprotected sex, the more effective it is. If taken within 24 hours after unprotected sex it is over 90% effective.

HOW DOES ONE TAKE EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION?

There are different brands of Emergency Contraceptive and each brand has a unique regime. It is therefore important to know:

• How many pills need to be taken.
• When to take the pills.
• Potential side effects of the different regimes.
• How to establish the regime was successful. 

AREAS OF CONCERN.

• Emergency contraception is not as effective as regular birth control measures that are used before or during sex.
• Emergency contraception does not protect one against sexually transmitted infections e.g. HIV/AIDS.
• It is important to establish the success of the emergency contraception. Menstruation should occur within three weeks of taking the medication.
• It can cause nausea.

HOW OFTEN CAN A WOMAN TAKE EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION?

There are no limits on using emergency contraception, however women should be advised to use a permanent method rather than use emergency contraception as a method of contraception.

Emergency contraception is available at all Marie Stopes centres.

For further information or to make a confidential booking please call our

Toll Free Number: 0800 11 77 85