How does emergency contraception work. What are the main advantages and disadvantages of using the morning-after pill. Is emergency contraception safe and effective for preventing pregnancy after unprotected sex.

What is Emergency Contraception and How Does it Work?

Emergency contraception, also known as the morning-after pill, is a form of birth control used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse. Despite its common name, it can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex, not just the morning after.

The primary mechanism of action for emergency contraception is preventing or delaying ovulation. It contains progestin, a hormone found in regular birth control pills, which works by:

• Inhibiting the release of eggs from the ovaries
• Thickening cervical mucus to block sperm
• Potentially thinning the uterine lining to prevent implantation

It’s important to note that emergency contraception is not an abortion pill. It prevents pregnancy from occurring rather than terminating an existing pregnancy.

Types and Effectiveness of Emergency Contraception

There are several types of emergency contraception available:

• Plan B One-Step
• ella
• Next Choice
• Copper IUD (Paragard)

The effectiveness of emergency contraception depends on how quickly it’s taken after unprotected sex. Plan B One-Step and Next Choice can reduce the risk of pregnancy by 89% when taken within 72 hours. Their effectiveness decreases over time but can still offer some protection up to 120 hours after intercourse.

The copper IUD, when inserted within 120 hours of unprotected sex, is 99.9% effective as emergency contraception and provides ongoing contraception for up to 10 years.

Factors Affecting Effectiveness

Several factors can impact the effectiveness of emergency contraception:

1. Timing of use
2. Body weight
3. Interactions with other medications
4. Frequency of unprotected sex

Advantages of Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception offers several benefits for individuals seeking to prevent unintended pregnancy:

• Provides a second chance at pregnancy prevention after contraceptive failure or unprotected sex
• Available without a prescription for those 17 and older
• Safe for most women to use
• Does not affect future fertility
• Can be used multiple times in a menstrual cycle if needed

Is emergency contraception suitable for all situations? While it’s a valuable option for many, it’s not ideal as a regular form of birth control due to higher costs and lower effectiveness compared to consistent use of other contraceptive methods.

Potential Side Effects and Risks

While emergency contraception is generally safe, some users may experience side effects:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Headaches
• Breast tenderness
• Abdominal pain
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Irregular menstrual bleeding

These side effects are typically mild and resolve on their own within a few days. Serious complications from emergency contraception are rare.

Long-term Safety Considerations

Unlike regular hormonal birth control methods, emergency contraception does not pose the same long-term risks because the hormone is not present in the body for an extended period. However, frequent use may lead to menstrual irregularities and is not recommended as a primary form of contraception.

Accessibility and Cost of Emergency Contraception

The availability of emergency contraception has improved in recent years:

• Available over-the-counter for individuals 17 and older
• Prescription required for those under 17
• Cost ranges from $10 to $70, depending on the brand and location
• May be covered by insurance plans

Do all pharmacies stock emergency contraception? While many do, availability can vary. It’s advisable to call ahead or check online to ensure the product is in stock.

Common Misconceptions About Emergency Contraception

Several myths persist about emergency contraception that can lead to misunderstandings:

1. It’s the same as the abortion pill (it’s not)
2. It protects against STIs (it doesn’t)
3. It can only be used the morning after (it can be used up to 5 days after)
4. It affects future fertility (it doesn’t)
5. It’s 100% effective (no contraception is 100% effective)

Educating oneself about these misconceptions is crucial for making informed decisions about contraception.

When to Consider Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception may be appropriate in various situations:

• Condom breakage or slippage
• Missed birth control pills
• Dislodged diaphragm or cervical cap
• Miscalculation of fertile days
• Failure of the withdrawal method
• Absence of any contraception during intercourse
• Cases of sexual assault

When should you take a pregnancy test after using emergency contraception? If your period doesn’t start within three weeks of taking emergency contraception, it’s advisable to take a pregnancy test.

Comparing Emergency Contraception to Regular Birth Control Methods

While emergency contraception serves a crucial role, it differs from regular birth control methods in several ways:

Is emergency contraception a suitable replacement for regular birth control? While it’s an important option, it’s not designed or recommended for regular use due to higher costs, potentially more side effects, and lower overall effectiveness compared to consistent use of other methods.

Integrating Emergency Contraception into a Comprehensive Contraceptive Strategy

For optimal pregnancy prevention, consider emergency contraception as part of a broader contraceptive plan:

1. Use a reliable primary method of birth control consistently
2. Keep emergency contraception on hand for backup
3. Discuss options with a healthcare provider to find the best fit
4. Be aware of factors that might affect contraceptive effectiveness
5. Consider long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) for highly effective, low-maintenance options

The Future of Emergency Contraception

Research in emergency contraception continues to evolve, with potential developments including:

• New formulations with fewer side effects
• Extended windows of effectiveness
• Improved accessibility and affordability
• Integration with digital health technologies for reminders and tracking

As science advances, we may see more options and improvements in emergency contraception, further empowering individuals in their reproductive choices.

Making Informed Decisions About Emergency Contraception

When considering emergency contraception, it’s essential to:

1. Understand how it works and its limitations
2. Be aware of the timing for maximum effectiveness
3. Consider potential side effects and interactions
4. Consult with a healthcare provider if unsure
5. Plan for ongoing contraception to prevent future need

By being well-informed, individuals can make the best choices for their reproductive health and overall well-being.

Resources for Further Information and Support

For those seeking additional guidance on emergency contraception and reproductive health, consider these resources:

• Planned Parenthood clinics and website
• Local family planning centers
• Online educational resources from reputable medical organizations
• Telehealth services for confidential consultations
• Support hotlines for reproductive health questions

Remember, healthcare providers and pharmacists can offer personalized advice based on individual circumstances and medical history.

Emergency Contraception | Planned Parenthood Hudson Peconic, Inc.

Emergency Contraception (Morning-After Pill) at a Glance

• Birth control you can use to prevent pregnancy up to five days (120 hours) after unprotected sex
• Safe and effective
• Available without a prescription if 17 or older
• Costs vary from $10 to $70

Is the Morning-After Pill (Emergency Contraception) Right for Me?

Accidents happen. That’s why we have the morning-after pill (also known as emergency contraception). Did you have intercourse without using protection? Did you forget to use your birth control correctly? Did the condom break, leaving you worried about becoming pregnant? If so, emergency contraception might be a good choice for you.

Here are some of the most common questions we hear women ask about emergency contraception. We hope the answers help you decide if it is right for you.

Emergency contraception (the morning-after pill) is a safe and effective way to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse. It can be started up to five days (120 hours) after unprotected intercourse.

You may want to use it if:

• The condom broke or slipped off, and they ejaculated in your vagina.
• You forgot to take your birth control pills, insert your ring, or apply your patch.
• Your diaphragm or cap slipped out of place, and they ejaculated inside your vagina.
• You miscalculated your “safe” days.
• They didn’t pull out in time.
• You weren’t using any birth control.
• You were forced to have unprotected vaginal sex.

Emergency contraception is also known as the morning-after pill, emergency birth control, backup birth control, and by the brand names Plan B One-Step, ella, and Next Choice.

Many people call emergency contraception the “morning-after pill.” But that name is a little confusing. You can use emergency contraception up to five days after unprotected intercourse — not just the “morning after. “

How Does Emergency Contraception Work?

Emergency contraception is made of one of the hormones found in birth control pills — progestin. Hormones are chemicals made in our bodies. They control how different parts of the body work.

The hormone in the morning-after pill works by keeping a person’s ovaries from releasing eggs — ovulation. Pregnancy cannot happen if there is no egg to join with sperm. The hormone in the morning-after pill also prevents pregnancy by thickening a woman’s cervical mucus. The mucus blocks sperm and keeps it from joining with an egg.

The hormone also thins the lining of the uterus. In theory, this could prevent pregnancy by keeping a fertilized egg from attaching to the uterus.

You might have also heard that emergency contraception causes an abortion. But that’s not true. Emergency contraception is not the abortion pill. Emergency contraception is birth control, not abortion.  A Paragard IUD can also be used as backup birth control if inserted within 120 hours — five days — after unprotected intercourse. It is 99.9 percent effective. Talk with your health care provider if you’re interested in getting an IUD.

How Effective Emergency Contraception?

Emergency contraception can be started up to 120 hours — five days — after unprotected intercourse. The sooner it is started, the better it works.

Emergency contraception is also known as the morning-after pill, emergency birth control, backup birth control, and by the brand names Plan B One-Step, ella, and Next Choice. Plan B One-Step and Next Choice reduce the risk of pregnancy by 89 percent when started within 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. They continue to reduce the risk of pregnancy up to 120 hours after unprotected intercourse, but they are less effective as time passes.

You need to use emergency contraception to prevent pregnancy after each time you have unprotected intercourse. Emergency contraception will not prevent pregnancy for any unprotected intercourse you may have after taking the pills. If you do not have your period within three weeks after taking emergency contraception, you may want to consider taking a pregnancy test.

Emergency contraception offers no protection against sexually transmitted infections. You may want to consider STI testing if there is a possibility that unprotected sex put you at risk.

How Safe Emergency Contraception?

Emergency contraception is safe. Even though it’s made of the same hormone as the birth control pill, emergency contraception does not have the same risks as taking the pill or other hormonal birth control methods continuously. That’s because the hormone in emergency contraception is not in your body as long as it is with ongoing birth control.

Millions of people have used emergency contraception. It has been used for more than 30 years. There have been no reports of serious complications.

What Are the Disadvantages of Emergency Contraception?

You may have some undesirable side effects while using emergency contraception but many people use Plan B One-Step, ella, and Next Choice with few or no problems.

Nausea and throwing up are the most common side effects. Less than 1 out of 4 people feel sick when they take them. You can use anti-nausea medicine one hour before taking emergency contraception if you are concerned about being nauseous. Many people also find it helpful to take the emergency contraception pills with a full stomach. 

Other side effects of the morning-after pill may include

• breast tenderness
• irregular bleeding
• dizziness
• headaches

If you use emergency contraception frequently, it may cause your period to be irregular. Emergency contraception should not be used as a form of ongoing birth control because there are other forms of birth control that are a lot more effective.

How Do I Get Emergency Contraception?

Plan B One-Step and Next Choice are available from drugstores and health centers without a prescription for people 17 and older. If you are interested in getting emergency contraception and are 17 or older, you can either get it directly from a Planned Parenthood health center or from your local drugstore. If you are younger than 17, you’ll need to go to a health center or private health care provider for a prescription. ella is not available over the counter at drugstores, but you can get it with a prescription.

We all like to be prepared. That is why it’s a great idea to keep some emergency contraception in your medicine cabinet or bedside table in case of an accident. Having emergency contraception on hand will let you take it as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse, when it is most effective. If you are younger than 17, you can ask your health care provider for a prescription that you can fill ahead of time. Emergency contraception is safe, effective, and should be widely available but because of certain policies and personal bias, some people may have a hard time getting it. If you are having trouble getting emergency contraception from your local pharmacy or health care provider, contact your local Planned Parenthood health center. We can help you get the medicine you need.

How Much Does Emergency Contraception Cost?

The cost of emergency contraception varies a great deal. It may cost anywhere from $10 to $70. If you are not 17 and need a prescription, the health center visit may cost up to $250, depending on where you live.

Family planning clinics usually charge less than private health care providers and drugstores.

Planned Parenthood works to make health care accessible and affordable. Some health centers are able to charge according to income. Most accept health insurance. If you qualify, Medicaid or other state programs may lower your health care costs.  

How Do I Use Emergency Contraception?

Take emergency contraception as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse. The sooner you start it, the better it will work. But it will reduce your risk of pregnancy if you start it up to 120 hours — five days — after unprotected intercourse.

You can use anti-nausea medicine one hour before taking emergency contraception if you are concerned about getting nauseated. Many people also find it helpful to take the emergency contraception pills with a full stomach.

After you take emergency contraception, it’s normal for your next period to be different from usual.

• It may be earlier or later than usual.
• It may be heavier, lighter, more spotty, or the same as usual.

Be sure to tell any health care provider that you may see before your next period that you have taken emergency contraception. If you do not have your period within three weeks after taking emergency contraception, or if you have any symptoms of pregnancy, take a pregnancy test or schedule an appointment with your health care provider.

Can I Use Regular Birth Control Pills as Emergency Contraception?

Yes, certain brands of birth control pills can be used in increased doses as emergency contraception. 

Planned Parenthood Hudson Peconic, Inc.

• Who We Are

• For Patients

  • COVID-19 Update

  • Telehealth Service

  • Free Birth Control, STI Testing, and Exams

  • Birth Control

  • Emergency Contraception

  • Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs)

  • Gender Affirming Hormone Therapy

  • HIV Testing

  • PrEP and PEP

  • Cervical Cancer

  • Human Papillomavirus (HPV)

  • Abortion

  • Prenatal Care

  • Menopause Services

  • Vasectomy

  • SmartWheels

  • Medical Forms

  • Insurance and Payment Information

  • Security Information

• For Teens

• Education & Training

• Get Involved

• Events

• News

• Join The Team

• Contact Us

Back to top

We couldn’t access your location, please search for a location.

Zip, City, or State

Please enter a valid 5-digit zip code or city or state.

Please fill out this field.

Service
All Services
Abortion

Abortion Referrals

Birth Control

COVID-19 Vaccine

HIV Services

Men’s Health Care

Mental Health

Morning-After Pill (Emergency Contraception)

Pregnancy Testing & Services

Primary Care

STD Testing, Treatment & Vaccines

Transgender Hormone Therapy

Women’s Health Care

Filter By
All
Telehealth
In-person

Please enter your age and the first day of your last period for more accurate abortion options. Your information is private and anonymous.

AGE

This field is required.

Or call
1-800-230-7526

Emergency contraception (morning after pill, IUD)

Emergency contraception can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or if the contraception you have used has failed – for example, a condom has split or you have missed a pill.

There are 2 types of emergency contraception:

• the emergency contraceptive pill – Levonelle or ellaOne (the “morning after” pill)
• the intrauterine device (IUD or coil)

Credit:

AJ PHOTO/SCIENCE PHOTO LIBRARY https://www.sciencephoto.com/media/298913/view

At a glance: facts about emergency contraception

• You need to take the emergency contraceptive pill within 3 days (Levonelle) or 5 days (ellaOne) of unprotected sex for it to be effective – the sooner you take it, the more effective it’ll be.
• The IUD can be fitted up to 5 days after unprotected sex, or up to 5 days after the earliest time you could have ovulated, for it to be effective.
• The IUD is more effective than the contraceptive pill at preventing pregnancy – less than 1% of women who use the IUD get pregnant.
• Taking the emergency contraceptive pills Levonelle or ellaOne can give you a headache or tummy pain and make you feel or be sick.
• The emergency contraceptive pill can make your next period earlier, later or more painful than usual.
• If you’re sick (vomit) within 2 hours of taking Levonelle or 3 hours of taking ellaOne, go to your GP, pharmacist or genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinic, as you’ll need to take another dose or have an IUD fitted.
• If you use the IUD as emergency contraception, it can be left in and used as your regular contraceptive method.
• If you use the IUD as a regular method of contraception, it can make your periods longer, heavier or more painful.
• You may feel some discomfort when the IUD is put in, but painkillers can help.
• There are no serious side effects of using emergency contraception.
• Emergency contraception doesn’t cause an abortion.

How the emergency pill works

Levonelle

Levonelle contains levonorgestrel, a synthetic (man-made) version of the natural hormone progesterone produced by the ovaries.

Taking it’s thought to stop or delay the release of an egg (ovulation).

Levonelle has to be taken within 72 hours (3 days) of sex to prevent pregnancy. It doesn’t interfere with your regular method of contraception.

ellaOne

ellaOne contains ulipristal acetate, which stops progesterone working normally. This also works by stopping or delaying the release of an egg.

ellaOne has to be taken within 120 hours (5 days) of sex to prevent pregnancy.

If you take Levonelle or ellaOne

Levonelle and ellaOne don’t continue to protect you against pregnancy – if you have unprotected sex at any time after taking the emergency pill, you can become pregnant.

They aren’t intended to be used as a regular form of contraception. But you can use emergency contraception more than once in a menstrual cycle if you need to.

Who can use the emergency pill?

Most women can use the emergency contraceptive pill. This includes women who can’t use hormonal contraception, such as the combined pill and contraceptive patch. Girls under 16 years old can also use it.

But you may not be able to take the emergency contraceptive pill if you’re allergic to anything in it, have severe asthma or take any medicines that may interact with it, such as:

• the herbal medicine St John’s Wort
• some medicines used to treat epilepsy, HIV or tuberculosis (TB)
• medicine to make your stomach less acidic, such as omeprazole
• some less commonly used antibiotics (rifampicin and rifabutin)

ellaOne can’t be used if you’re already taking one of these medicines, as it may not work. Levonelle may still be used, but the dose may need to be increased.

Tell a GP, nurse or pharmacist what medicines you’re taking, and they can advise you if they’re safe to take with the emergency contraceptive pill.

You can also read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medicine for more information.

Breastfeeding

Levonelle is safe to take while breastfeeding. Although small amounts of the hormones in the pill may pass into your breast milk, it’s not thought to be harmful to your baby.

The safety of ellaOne during breastfeeding isn’t yet known. The manufacturer recommends that you don’t breastfeed for one week after taking this pill.

If you’re already using regular contraception

You may need to take the emergency pill if you:

• forgot to take some of your regular contraceptive pills
• didn’t use your contraceptive patch or vaginal ring correctly
• were late having your contraceptive implant or contraceptive injection

If you have taken Levonelle, you should:

• take your next contraceptive pill, apply a new patch or insert a new ring within 12 hours of taking the emergency pill
• continue taking your regular contraceptive pill as normal

Use additional contraception, such as condoms, for:

• 7 days if you use the patch, ring, combined pill (except Qlaira), implant or injection
• 9 days for the combined pill Qlaira
• 2 days if you use the progestogen-only pill

If you have taken ellaOne:

• wait at least 5 days before taking your next contraceptive pill, applying a new patch or inserting a new ring

Use additional contraception, such as condoms, until you restart your contraception and for an additional:

• 7 days if you use the patch, ring, combined pill (except Qlaira), implant or injection
• 9 days for the combined pill Qlaira
• 2 days if you use the progestogen-only pill

A GP or nurse can advise further on when you can start taking regular contraception and how long you should use additional contraception.

Side effects of using the emergency pill

There are no serious or long-term side effects from taking the emergency contraceptive pill.

But it can cause:

• headaches
• tummy pain
• changes to your next period – it can be earlier, later or more painful than usual
• feeling or being sick – get medical attention if you’re sick within 2 hours of taking Levonelle or 3 hours of taking ellaOne, as you’ll need to take another dose or have an IUD fitted

See a GP or nurse if your symptoms don’t go away after a few days or if:

• you think you might be pregnant
• your next period is more than 7 days late
• your period is shorter or lighter than usual
• you have sudden pain in your lower tummy – in rare cases, a fertilised egg may have implanted outside the womb (ectopic pregnancy)

Can I get the emergency contraceptive pill in advance?

You can get the emergency contraceptive pill in advance of having unprotected sex if:

• you’re worried about your contraceptive method failing
• you’re going on holiday
• you can’t get hold of emergency contraception easily

See a GP or nurse for further advice on getting advance emergency contraception. You can also talk to them about your options for regular methods of contraception.

How the IUD works as emergency contraception

The intrauterine device (IUD) is a small, T-shaped plastic and copper device that’s put into your womb (uterus) by a doctor or nurse.

It releases copper to stop the egg implanting in your womb or being fertilised.

The IUD can be inserted up to 5 days after unprotected sex, or up to 5 days after the earliest time you could have ovulated (released an egg), to prevent pregnancy.

You can also choose to have the IUD left in as an ongoing method of contraception.

How effective is the IUD at preventing pregnancy?

The emergency IUD is the most effective method of emergency contraception – less than 1% of women who use the IUD get pregnant.

It’s more effective than the emergency pill at preventing pregnancy after unprotected sex.

Who can use the IUD?

Most women can use an IUD, including those who are HIV positive. A GP or nurse will ask about your medical history to check if an IUD is suitable for you.

The IUD might not be suitable if you have:

• an untreated sexually transmitted infection (STI) or a pelvic infection
• problems with your womb or cervix
• unexplained bleeding between periods or after sex

The emergency IUD won’t react with any other medicines you’re taking.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

The IUD shouldn’t be inserted if there’s a risk that you may already be pregnant.

It’s safe to use when you’re breastfeeding and it won’t affect your milk supply.

Side effects of the IUD

Complications after having an IUD fitted are rare, but can include:

• pain
• infection
• damage to the womb
• the IUD coming out of your womb
• heavier, longer or more painful periods if you continue to use it as a regular method of contraception

Where can I get emergency contraception?

Getting it for free

You can get emergency contraception for free, even if you’re under 16, from these places, but they may not all fit the IUD:

• contraception clinics
• sexual health or genitourinary medicine (GUM) clinics
• some GP surgeries
• some young people’s clinics
• most NHS walk-in centres and minor injuries units
• most pharmacies
• some accident and emergency (A&E) departments (phone first to check)

Find your nearest sexual health clinic

Find your nearest pharmacy

Buying it

If you’re aged 16 or over, you can buy the emergency contraceptive pill from most pharmacies, in person or online, and from some organisations, such as the British Pregnancy Advisory Service (BPAS). The cost varies, but it will be around £25 to £35.

Contraception for the future

If you’re not using a regular method of contraception, you might consider doing so to protect yourself from an unintended pregnancy.

There are several methods of contraception that protect you for a long period, so you don’t have to think about them once they’re in place, or remember to use or take them every day or every time you have sex.

These methods include the:

• contraceptive injection
• contraceptive implant
• intrauterine system (IUS)
• intrauterine device (IUD)

See a GP, nurse or visit your nearest sexual health clinic to discuss the options available.

If you’re under 16 years old

Contraception services are free and confidential, including for people under the age of 16.

If you’re under 16 and want contraception, the doctor, nurse or pharmacist won’t tell your parents (or carer) as long as they believe you fully understand the information you’re given, and the decisions you’re making.

Doctors and nurses work under strict guidelines when dealing with people under 16. They’ll encourage you to consider telling your parents, but they won’t make you.

The only time a professional might want to tell someone else is if they believe you’re at risk of harm, such as abuse. The risk would need to be serious, and they would usually discuss this with you first.

Help us improve our website

Can you answer a few quick questions about your visit today?

Click here to take our survey

Page last reviewed: 22 February 2018

Next review due: 22 February 2021

Understanding the types of contraception, their pros and cons with an obstetrician gynecologist

Every woman is concerned about how to prevent unwanted pregnancy and protect herself from sexually transmitted infections.

The questions of how to prevent unwanted pregnancy and protect against sexually transmitted infections are of concern to every woman. Choosing reliable contraception is not an easy task, and this issue should be discussed with your doctor. Obstetrician-gynecologist of the clinic “Euromed” Marina Pavlovna GLUSHENKOVA talks about the existing methods of contraception, their pros and cons.

Contraception is barrier, hormonal and intrauterine. Methods such as coitus interruptus and calendar methods cannot be considered reliable and effective. Fortunately, in the XXI century there are many ways and means of protection from unwanted pregnancy and unpleasant diseases.

Barrier methods

Condoms

Pluses

• reliable protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and unwanted pregnancies (when used correctly)

• affordable price

• no systemic effect on the body

• ideal for those who have an irregular sex life

• do not require preliminary examinations for selection

Cons

Spermicides

Spermicides are substances that immobilize spermatozoa, due to which they do not penetrate into the uterine cavity.

Pluses

• partial protection against sexually transmitted infections (some viruses do not work)

• suitable for those who cannot use hormonal and intrauterine contraception

Cons

• low efficiency (60–70%), this method cannot be used as an independent method

• requires very strict enforcement of the rules of use

• Possible irritation, allergic reactions of the skin of the genital organs

Intrauterine methods

Copper intrauterine system (coil)

The coil thickens cervical mucus and forms a barrier to spermatozoa. Copper acts toxically on spermatozoa, immobilizing them, and also suppresses ovulation.

Pros

• prolonged action, allowing you to forget about contraception for several years

• no systemic effect on the body

• can be used during lactation

Cons

• you can not put nulliparous, because against the background of the spiral there is a risk of the formation of intrauterine synechia, adhesions, which can lead to infertility; also, nulliparous due to anatomical features have a narrower cervical canal, which makes it difficult to install the spiral.

• the spiral does not protect against STDs, therefore, it is only suitable for women who have one permanent healthy sexual partner;

• against the background of the use of a copper-containing spiral, the risk of inflammatory diseases of the uterus and appendages increases by 5-6 times compared with women who do not have spirals;

• the spiral can provoke longer and more painful periods;

• if a woman has a history of multiple abortions, invasive interventions, curettage, there is a risk of developing cervical insufficiency, i.e. failure of the cervix, which can lead to expulsion (falling out) of the spiral.

Protected hormonal coils

The hormones contained in the system act in the uterine cavity, make the mucous membrane thinner, and immobilize spermatozoa. All this makes fertilization and implantation of the fetal egg impossible.

Pluses

• Reliable contraceptive action for five years

• No systemic action

• has a therapeutic effect: it is indicated for patients with a history of endometrial hyperplastic processes, uterine myoma

• can be used during lactation

Cons

Hormonal contraception

This is perhaps the most effective method of all existing today.

Hormonal preparations differ in dosage (mini-dose – estrogen content no more than 30 mcg, micro-dose – no more than 20 mcg, large doses are not currently used), components, and the method of entry into the body.

There are two types of drugs: combined and the “mini-drank” group. Combined contraceptives contain estrogens (ethinyl estradiol) and gestagens, “mini-drank” – only gestagens.

Preparations from the “mini-drank” group are indicated for lactating women who should not take estrogens, but only gestagens. Also, “mini-pills” can be taken by women who do not tolerate the estrogen component.

Types of drugs: tablets (taken orally), vaginal ring (hormones penetrate the vaginal mucosa) and patch (transdermal route – hormones enter through the skin).

Reception methods. Tablets should be taken daily, at the same time. It is especially important to take at the same time for drugs from the “mini-drank” group. Tablets are generally taken for 21 days, after which they take a break for 7 days.

The vaginal ring is inserted into the vagina for 21 days, after which there is a break for a week.

The patch is changed every 7 days.

The advantage of alternative routes of administration (ring, patch) is that you do not need to remember to take the pill every day and there is no primary passage through the liver and gastrointestinal tract, which reduces the load on them. This is especially important if a woman has problems with the gastrointestinal tract or chronic cholecystitis.

Pluses

• reliable contraceptive effect (if a woman does not miss taking pills, the guarantee is almost 100%)

• active protection of the ovaries and endometrium (mucosa) of the uterus from cancer

• regulation of the menstrual cycle

• reduction of pain during menstruation

• cosmetic effect (some OK help to cope with acne, normalize skin condition)

• therapeutic effect (the doctor will help you choose hormonal contraceptives, which are indicated for patients with uterine fibroids, with endometriosis).

Cons

• the need for strict discipline, control of taking drugs at the same time (especially important for “mini-pill”)

• do not protect against STDs

• any hormonal drugs affect metabolism (metabolism), which can lead to fluctuations in body weight, although in modern drugs this effect is minimal;

• there is an effect on the vascular link, on the blood coagulation system, therefore, when taking contraceptives, constant monitoring of hemostasis is necessary. If a woman has a predisposition to varicose veins, to hypertension, or in the family there were cases of diseases of the cardiovascular system, accompanied by thrombosis, heart attacks, strokes, then the patient needs a comprehensive examination of the hemostasis system before taking hormonal contraceptives;

• there is a period of adaptation to hormones. Within 2-3 months, nausea, headaches and pains in the mammary glands can sometimes be observed, there may be slight spotting in the middle of the cycle, changes in libido, mood swings. Therefore, mandatory medical supervision of the use of drugs during the first months of admission.

• hormonal contraceptives have a number of contraindications: active smoking (more than 5 cigarettes per day), severe somatic diseases, severe decompensated diabetes mellitus, thrombosis, varicose veins, heart attacks, strokes, arterial hypertension, frequent migraines, etc.

Sterilization

Medical sterilization is a surgical technique that can be used by both men and women. This is a reliable method of 100% protection against pregnancy, a good choice for people who are definitely not planning more children.

After the operation, the ability to conceive can no longer be restored for women, in men there is a small (less than 30%) chance of restoring reproductive function by re-operation within five years after the intervention.

Female sterilization is a laparoscopic operation during which the fallopian tubes are cut, which reliably prevents the possibility of pregnancy.

Male sterilization (vasectomy) is a simple operation that takes about 20 minutes. During surgery, the vas deferens are tied up and crossed. Sterilization does not affect the erection, the amount of seminal fluid and the ability to experience an orgasm.

Pluses

Cons

• irreversibility of the operation

• the need for surgery

• there are legal restrictions on this operation

Medical sterilization as a special medical intervention in order to deprive a person of the ability to reproduce offspring or as a method of contraception can only be carried out upon a written application of a citizen over the age of thirty-five or a citizen with at least two children, and if there are medical indications and informed voluntary consent citizen – regardless of age and the presence of children.

Article 57

emergency contraception

In the case of unprotected intercourse, you can use the so-called emergency contraception. These drugs are aimed at protection, this is not an abortion. The tablet contains a large dose of progestin preparations that cause rejection of the endometrial mucosa.

Pluses

Cons

When choosing contraception, be sure to contact a gynecologist. Before prescribing this or that drug, the doctor will conduct an examination, which includes an examination on a chair, taking a smear for oncocytology. Also, if there are signs of endocrinopathy (increased hair growth, acne), it is necessary to investigate the hormonal background. Since hormones thicken the blood, affect hemostasis (blood coagulation system), it makes sense to conduct a comprehensive examination of the state of the hemostasis system. In addition, it is recommended to do an ultrasound examination of the pelvic organs (uterus and appendages) and mammary glands. All these procedures are minimally invasive, painless, they are not difficult to pass, and they will help to avoid possible complications against the background of long-term use of contraceptives.

Services

Consultation with a gynecologist

10 things to know about emergency contraception

• Lifestyle

Even ordinary contraceptive pills cause fear for many women, not to mention emergency contraception. In what cases is EC justified and how effective is it – answers the gynecologist Angelina Romanovskaya.

July 21, 20219

Source:

pixabay.com

How does emergency contraception work?

– The point of emergency contraception is to take action quickly so that an unwanted pregnancy does not occur. This should be done immediately after unprotected intercourse. Such funds may be required, for example, if a condom has broken or you have violated the use of conventional hormonal contraceptives. In addition, we must remember that with interrupted intercourse, no one has canceled the likelihood of becoming pregnant either. This method is also used in the case of sexual violence.

The principle of operation of different products may vary slightly. As a rule, they suppress ovulation or prevent the transport and attachment of a fertilized egg in the uterine cavity. Some of them affect the activity of spermatozoa – they can literally paralyze them.

What types of emergency contraception are available?

– Although some emergency contraceptives are sold in pharmacies without a prescription, it is advisable to have them selected by a specialist. Each drug has its own characteristics, contraindications, so strongly recommend that you consult a gynecologist before buying them.

All these funds are divided into two groups.

First – hormonal tablets containing as one of the active substances – levonorgestrel, mifepristone, ulipristal acetate or ethinyl estradiol. There are also combined oral contraceptives. Such tablets are taken no later than 72 hours after the “event”.

Second group – copper-containing intrauterine devices. They have a longer period – you need to do it within 5 days (120 hours). A serious minus of the IUD is that if a woman has inflammatory diseases of the pelvic organs, then the spiral can be placed only after they have been cured. The advantage is that then it can continue to be used as a contraceptive. Some doctors believe that it is better for nulliparous women to refuse to install an IUD, but there is still no consensus on this matter. For example, professional societies of obstetricians and gynecologists in the United States recommend these funds, including such patients.

How often can these “fire” equipment be used?

– That’s why it is emergency contraception, which does not imply regularity. The less often you use it, the better. Meanwhile, the possible frequency of admission is not clearly spelled out anywhere. It is advisable to find a good gynecologist who will select the optimal method of planned, and not emergency, protection specifically for you.

These drugs are called the “morning pill”. Is time of day important for taking?

– In fact, the morning has nothing to do with it – the pill can be taken both in the afternoon and in the evening. The point is to do this as quickly as possible after unprotected contact.

See also

How often does this method fail?

– It is considered highly effective – the percentage of failures ranges from 1-3%, if everything is done promptly. The principle is general: the faster the method is used, the higher its effectiveness will be. So, if you take an emergency contraceptive pill within the first 24 hours after contact, the effectiveness reaches 99%, if within 24-48 hours – no more than 85%, and within 48-72 hours – only 58%.

What can reduce the effectiveness of EC?

– The main enemy is time. In addition to it, vomiting can reduce their effectiveness within two hours after taking the drug. The body mass index is also discussed. Some experts say that a BMI above 30 (an index of 30-35 corresponds to the 1st degree of obesity – Ed. ) reduces the effect of emergency contraception. Other experts, on the contrary, believe that this is not the case. There have been many studies, but there is still no definitive answer.

How do you know if a pill hasn’t worked?

– It is important to know that if, for some reason, pregnancy has already occurred (maybe it happened earlier, before the last contact), emergency contraception will not work – it will not be able to interrupt it. If menstruation does not come on time, this is an occasion to do a rapid pregnancy test and take a blood test for the level of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG is the earliest and most reliable indicator of pregnancy). Implantation bleeding does happen within 1-2 weeks after conception, but it cannot be said that it is very common. Such discharges are usually more meager than in a normal cycle. Therefore, if something is suspicious, donate blood for hCG and everything will become clear.

Who exactly should refuse to take these funds?

– These tablets should definitely not be taken by women with a history of thromboembolism, severe liver disease, unexplained bleeding, breast or endometrial cancer. Other indications and contraindications for taking, taking into account individual health characteristics, should be discussed with your doctor. Again, each tool has its pros and cons. For example, in women over 35 years of age, taking drugs with ethinyl estradiol (synthetic estrogen) increases the risk of developing thromboembolic complications.

There is an opinion that taking emergency hormonal contraceptives is more dangerous for health than abortion. This is true?

– This is a myth. EC has been proven to be a reliable method for preventing unwanted pregnancies. Of course, it should be rarely used. At the same time, even a medical abortion, not to mention a surgical one, can have more serious consequences for a woman’s health. If only because during abortion, hormonal drugs are used in a much higher dosage.

Can emergency contraceptives be used while breastfeeding?

– It is better to consult your doctor about the possibility of taking contraceptives during lactation.