Emergency Contraception (Morning After Pill)
Considering emergency contraception, aka the morning after pill?
How does it work?
Emergency contraceptives (EC) work primarily by preventing ovulation, fertilization, and the implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus. It’s important to note that depending on when ovulation occurs, when the medication is taken, and when you had sex, it’s possible that EC’s will prevent the implantation of a fertilized egg (meaning sperm and egg have already met) in the uterus. Many people view this as an abortifacient effect, which is something to consider. Additionally, the longer after unprotected sex they’re taken, the less effective they are. Emergency contraceptives will not work to terminate a pregnancy if you are already pregnant.
Types of emergency contraceptives
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Levonogestrel (Plan B One-Step®)
- Utilizes synthetic progestin.
- Must be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex.
- It is recommended to abstain from sex or use a barrier method for up to 7 days after using Plan B.
- Should not be used in women weighing over 155 lbs. -
Ulipristal acetate (ella®)
- Can be taken within 5 days of unprotected sex.
- Requires a prescription.
- Ella® should not be taken twice in the same cycle.
- It is recommended to use a barrier method of protection for up to 2 weeks after taking ella® as it can decrease the effectiveness of other forms of hormonal birth control.
- Should not be used in women weighing over 195 lbs. -
Copper IUD (Paraguard®)
- Should be placed within 5 days of unprotected sex.
- Needs to be inserted by a healthcare professional.
Side effects
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Nausea
-
Vomiting
-
Headache
-
Irregular periods
A few considerations
If you take use an emergency contraceptive, it’s possible that your periods may be irregular in the days to weeks after you take the medication.
Reviewed by Lynn B., BSN, RN
Resources
https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-bulletin/articles/2015/09/emergency-contraception
https://www.healthline.com/health/healthy-sex/plan-b#other-fa-qs
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2010/022474s000lbl.pdf
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2009/021998lbl.pdf
https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/morning-after-pill-emergency-contraception/which-kind-emergency-contraception-should-i-use
https://lozierinstitute.org/plan-b-abortifacient-and-other-risks/
