Emergency Contraception

Overview

Emergency contraception is a contraception method which is used to avoid pregnancy soon after sexual intercourse. Types of emergency contraception available are the morning after pills and intrauterine device. The morning after pills are available in two types, namely levonorgestrel and ulipristal acetate. Levonorgestrel needs to be taken within 3 days, while ulipristal acetate needs to be taken within 5 days of unprotected sex for them to be effective. The sooner you take it, the more effective it will be. Side effects of these pills include nausea, vomiting, bloating or headache after taking the pills. Your next period may also be earlier or later. However, morning after pills should not be used for ongoing contraception. If the morning after pills are not suitable for you, another form of emergency contraception is the intrauterine device. It can be fitted up to 5 days after unprotected sex and can be left in as your regular contraceptive method.