When to Use Emergency Contraception: Understanding Your Options

 Introduction:

Emergency contraception is a form of birth control that can be used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or a contraceptive failure. It is also known as the morning-after pill or the Plan B pill. Emergency contraception can be taken up to 72 hours (or 120 hours, depending on the type of pill) after unprotected sex, but the sooner it is taken, the more effective it is. This article will provide a step-by-step guide on how to use emergency contraception.

Step 1: Determine if Emergency Contraception is Needed

The first step in using emergency contraception is determining if it is needed. Emergency contraception is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It is important to note that emergency contraception is not as effective as regular contraception and should not be relied on as a regular method of birth control.

Emergency contraception should be considered if:

Condoms broke or slipped during sex

You missed one or more birth control pills

You did not use any form of birth control during sex

You were sexually assaulted

You had unprotected sex during your fertile window

Step 2: Choose a Type of Emergency Contraception

There are two types of emergency contraception available: hormonal emergency contraception and copper intrauterine devices (IUDs). Hormonal emergency contraception is available over-the-counter at most drug stores and can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex. Copper IUDs can be inserted up to 5 days after unprotected sex and require a visit to a healthcare provider.

Hormonal emergency contraception comes in two forms: a single pill or two pills taken 12 hours apart. The most common type of emergency contraception is levonorgestrel (Plan B), which is available over-the-counter. Another type of emergency contraception is ulipristal acetate (ella), which requires a prescription.

Step 3: Purchase Hormonal Emergency Contraception

If you have decided to use hormonal emergency contraception, the next step is to purchase it. Hormonal emergency contraception is available over-the-counter at most drug stores, and no prescription is required. Levonorgestrel (Plan B) is the most common type of hormonal emergency contraception and is available in most drug stores. It is important to check the expiration date before purchasing and to make sure the packaging is not damaged.

Step 4: Read the Instructions

Once you have purchased the hormonal emergency contraception, the next step is to read the instructions carefully. The instructions will provide information on how to take the medication, when to take it, and what to expect after taking it.

Step 5: Take the Medication

The next step is to take the hormonal emergency contraception according to the instructions. Levonorgestrel (Plan B) is taken as a single pill, while ulipristal acetate (ella) is taken as two pills taken 12 hours apart. It is important to take the medication as soon as possible after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure, but it can be taken up to 72 hours (or 120 hours for ella) after sex.

Step 6: Watch for Side Effects

After taking the hormonal emergency contraception, it is important to watch for side effects. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, headache, and fatigue. These side effects usually go away within a few days, but if they persist, it is important to contact a healthcare provider. If you experience severe abdominal pain or heavy vaginal bleeding, seek medical attention immediately.

Step 7: Follow Up with a Healthcare Provider

Emergency contraception should not be used as a regular form of birth control, and it is important to follow up with a healthcare provider to discuss regular contraception options. Additionally, emergency contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.