Failed contraception can be a nightmare! Luckily, there's always an option for emergency contraception that can prevent or lower the risk of unwanted pregnancies. But is taking the morning-after pill 100% effective? This article explores everything you need to know about emergency contraception, including its types, benefits, and side effects.

Let's begin!

What is Emergency Contraception?

Emergency contraceptive pill, also known as morning-after pill, is a potent birth control medicine taken as soon as one has had unprotected sex. It can significantly lower the likelihood of pregnancy especially if taken on time. However, emergency contraception pills serve to prevent pregnancy rather than terminate one. This means that they should not be confused with abortion methods and cannot terminate a pregnancy that has already begun. Let's look at the morning-after pill's effectiveness.

Timing Is Key

The timing factor is crucial when it comes to avoiding pregnancy. It's essential to swiftly take the morning-after pill after engaging in unprotected sex or facing a contraceptive failure. Delaying this action could result in losing the opportunity to prevent pregnancy.

Unprotected Sex or Contraceptive Failure

Accidents can occur more often than you think. Therefore, it's better to be prepared in advance. If you experience contraceptive failures, such as a condom breaking or missing birth control pills, you should immediately look for an emergency contraceptive pill. These pills are not only for contraceptive failure only. You can also use them in case of unprotected sex. Taking the pills on time can prevent fertilisation, ovulation, and implantation. Even though mishaps might happen frequently, having emergency contraception is crucial for your peace of mind.

Missed Birth Control Pills

You might already have a regular birth control pill regimen. Following the directions for your particular contraceptive technique is crucial in case you missed a dosage. The kind of birth control pill and the number of missed doses determine whether emergency contraception should be used. You might also ask a medical expert for advice.

Types of Emergency Contraceptive Pills

Now that you know the importance of timing, let's explore the different emergency contraception options available. There are two main common methods of emergency contraception. They are:

1. Emergency contraceptive pills
2. Copper IUD

Morning-After Pill

A common method for avoiding unwanted pregnancies is the morning-after pill, often known as emergency contraceptives (ECPs). Emergency contraceptive in the pill-form consists of two types:

1. Levonorgestrel Tablets
2. Ulipristal Acetate Pills (EllaOne)

Levonorgestrel Tablets

Levonorgestrel tablets are a synthetic version of the hormone progesterone that ovaries produce. This contraception method works effectively by delaying ovulation. But it should be taken within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex. Several brands are selling over-the-counter emergency contraceptives with levonorgestrel. You can easily purchase levonorgestrel-based tablets without any prescription.

Ulipristal Acetate Pills

These pills are also called EllaOne. They are yet another method of emergency contraception. These pills contain ulipristal acetate. The purpose of the tablets is to prevent the normal function of progesterone. Like Plan B, these pills delay or inhibit ovulation. The good news is that these pills can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after intercourse. Unlike, Levonorgestrel Tablets, you need to get a prescription to purchase Ella. But it’s important to note that these pills are emergency contraceptives and can’t protect you from pregnancy if you want to have intercourse after taking the pills.

Copper Intrauterine Device (IUD)

The copper IUD is a long-term birth control option that helps prevent pregnancies. It is a small device inserted in your uterus (womb) to prevent the fertilisation of eggs & implantation in the uterus. A copper IUD has a nylon thread that goes through the uterus, the opening of the cervix. The copper IUD works by releasing copper ions that are toxic to sperm, which helps to prevent fertilisation. It is considered an effective and reversible form of contraception.

With a prescription, you can purchase copper IUDs from any pharmacy. Then, a trained healthcare professional will insert the device inside your womb. Make sure that you keep a note of the date you had the IUD inserted. IUD has an expiry date, and you must ensure you get it taken out before the due date. Plus, an IUD can easily last in your womb for 5-10 years, so keeping a record of the date is good.

Emergency Contraception Side Effects and How to Deal With Them

Emergency contraception pills can cause side effects. But, most of these are not long-term and will be over once the drug is out of your system. Although they are typically transient and pass within a few days, it is essential to be aware of them.

Here are some common side effects of emergency contraception:

• Nausea
• Dizziness
• Headache
• Breast soreness
• Changes in your menstrual cycle (you might get early or late periods)
• Fatigue

Emergency contraceptives can only impact the hormonal balance, leading to emotional distress in women. If you feel the worry or anxiety associated with the need for emergency contraception can be so intense. Reaching out to a reliable friend, partner, or healthcare provider who can provide support and advice might be helpful if you feel nervous or upset.

Severe Abdominal Pain

While rare, emergency contraceptives can also lead to severe abdominal pain. If you happen to experience such intense pain, then you should immediately ring a doctor. This is because severe abdominal pain can imply ectopic pregnancy.

Dealing with Emergency Contraceptive Side Effects

Side effects are quite normal. But they can be bothersome. If you’re facing several side effects, you should contact your GP or gynaecologist. They might prescribe a medication to deal with the pain or fatigue. A pharmacist can also help you with the OTC medications that can ease the troublesome side effects, like nausea or headaches. You should also take some rest until the drug is out of your system. This can help with the fatigue and persistent nausea.

Long-Term Contraceptive

Emergency contraception is an excellent backup plan. But that doesn't mean solely depending on the morning-after pill as your birth control. You should not replace regular, long-term contraceptive methods. So, consult a healthcare provider to help you choose the finest long-term contraceptive. They will evaluate your physical and mental health before recommending the best long-term contraception.

Final Word

Emergency contraception is an excellent backup in case of failed contraception or other mishaps. But timing is quite crucial while taking emergency contraception. While there is no doubt that the morning-after pill is an effective tool for preventing unintended pregnancies, it should be used responsibly. It also doesn't mean giving up on your current birth control regimen. If you have any further questions about buying emergency contraception in the UK, then contact us today. You can buy emergency contraception after taking a short assessment and we will deliver it securely to your door.