Emergency contraception refers to the type of contraception that is used to prevent an unintended pregnancy following an unprotected act of sexual intercourse.
It can be taken by a woman within three to five days after having unprotected sex, significantly reducing the probability of becoming pregnant, though the quicker it is taken, the more effective it is.
It is sometimes referred to as the 'morning-after pill', but this term can be confusing because it is not always in the form of a pill and it can be used within five days after unprotected sex (not only the morning after).
There are two types of emergency contraception: oral contraceptives and the IUD (Intrauterine Device).
Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECP): either high-dose progestogen-only contraceptive pills (POPs) or combined oral contraceptive pills (COCs)
What is it?
Two tablets containing a high dose of oestrogen and progestogen or progestogen alone taken together or in divided doses within three to five days of having sexual intercourse.
How does it work?
If taken before ovulation, ECPs inhibit ovulation. They also cause a thickening of the cervical mucus, blocking sperm penetration.
When can you use it?
A woman can take the emergency contraceptive pill if she has had unprotected or inadequately protected sexual intercourse within the last 72 hours (COCs) or 72-120 hours (POPs).
Emergency contraceptive pills should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex.
Advantages
• Offers an opportunity to prevent pregnancy in the event of rape, barrier method failure (condom breaks or slips, etc) or any other unprotected vaginal intercourse
• Reduces anxiety about unintended pregnancy prior to next menses
• Process of getting ECP may lead woman to initiate ongoing contraception
Disadvantages
• Next menses may be early or late (if no menses within three weeks of taking ECPs, pregnancy test should be done)
• Side effects may include: breast tenderness, fatigue, headache, abdominal pain and dizziness (less side effects with POPs)
• May not be widely available
• No protection against sexually transmitted infections
What does it protect against?
Emergency contraceptive pills are up to 99% effective, although the failure rate increases progressively each additional day between unprotected intercourse and taking the pills.
Note: because they do not act as an abortifacient, a pre-existing pregnancy will not be affected by ECPs.
Emergency contraception does not protect against STI.
Attitudes and values
Gender issues and responsibility
Because it is the woman who may become pregnant after unprotected sex, she often faces the worry of pregnancy and the responsibility of seeking out emergency contraception alone.
The male partner can take some of the responsibility by assisting the female partner in obtaining emergency contraception and by taking the initiative to discuss possible options for contraception to avoid this situation in the future.