Accidents happen, even when you’re careful. Whether a condom broke, you missed your pill, or had unprotected sex, emergency contraception offers a safe, effective backup option to prevent pregnancy. But how does it work, when should you take it, and what should you expect?
If you’re exploring birth control options in general, you might want to check out our full guide on Choosing the Right Contraceptive Method to understand all your choices better.
What Is Emergency Contraception?
Emergency contraception refers to methods used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It’s not the same as an abortion pill, it prevents pregnancy before it happens, not after.
There are two main types:
- Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) – Often called the “morning-after pill”
- Copper IUD (Intrauterine Device) – The most effective option if inserted within 5 days
Types of Emergency Contraceptive Pills
1. Levonorgestrel Pill
Brand examples: i-Pill, Plan B One-Step
- Best taken within 72 hours (3 days)
- Available over the counter in many countries
- Effectiveness decreases with time
2. Ulipristal Acetate Pill (Ella)
- Prescription-only in most places
- Effective up to 5 days after intercourse
- More effective than levonorgestrel, especially for people over 70 kg
Explore more on hormonal influences in our Pros & Cons of Hormonal Birth Control guide to compare your daily-use options.
How Does Emergency Contraception Work?
Emergency contraception works primarily by:
- Delaying ovulation (so there’s no egg to fertilize)
- Altering the uterine lining, preventing implantation
- Thickening cervical mucus, making it harder for sperm to reach the egg
It does not terminate an existing pregnancy. If you’re already pregnant, emergency contraception won’t be effective.
When Should You Take It?
Timing is crucial. The sooner you take emergency contraception, the better. Here’s a simple window:
- Levonorgestrel: Within 72 hours (best within 24)
- Ulipristal Acetate: Up to 120 hours (5 days)
- Copper IUD: Within 5 days (120 hours)
Pros of Emergency Contraception
- Effective at preventing unintended pregnancy
- Non-invasive and quick to take
- Available without prescription (in many places)
- No long-term effects on fertility
- Can be a lifesaver in cases of contraceptive failure
Possible Side Effects
Most side effects are temporary and mild:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Headache
- Breast tenderness
- Dizziness
- Slight delay or early start of your next period
If you vomit within two hours of taking the pill, you may need to take another dose.
Common Myths About Emergency Contraception
Myth 1: It causes abortion
Truth: It prevents pregnancy before it begins.
Myth 2: It can’t be used more than once
Truth: It’s safe for occasional use but should not replace regular birth control.
Myth 3: It affects future fertility
Truth: There is no evidence that emergency contraception impacts long-term fertility.
For anyone trying to conceive later, it’s useful to learn about preparing your body for pregnancy.
Who Should Use Emergency Contraception?
- Condom slipped or broke
- Missed 2 or more birth control pills
- Had unprotected sex
- Forgot to apply your contraceptive patch or insert ring
- Experienced forced sex or assault
It’s also a good option if you miscalculated ovulation days while using fertility awareness. Read more on tracking ovulation naturally.
When to See a Doctor
- If your period is more than 7 days late
- If you experience unusual bleeding or severe pain or If you have vomiting after taking the pill
- To discuss switching to a regular contraceptive method
Also, if you’re concerned about STI exposure, speak to your healthcare provider immediately.
Emergency Contraception for Athletes
Athletes often prefer low-hormone or non-hormonal methods. Emergency contraception is safe for them too, especially those who avoid daily hormonal intake. It’s a good occasional fallback without long-term hormone exposure.
However, if you experience discomfort during workouts or training, conditions like vulvodynia might require attention.
Join the Conversation
We’re here to help you make informed choices. Follow The Gynae Guide for updates, tips, and expert-backed content on reproductive health:
Final Thoughts
Emergency contraception is not something to rely on regularly, but it’s an incredibly valuable option when you need it. Knowing how it works, when to use it, and what your body might experience after taking it can empower you to act quickly and responsibly.
Whether you’re still exploring birth control, managing menstrual health, or preparing for future pregnancy, The Gynae Guide is here to support you every step of the way.
FAQs About Emergency Contraception
Q1. Can I use emergency contraception as regular birth control?
No. It’s for occasional use only and not as effective as daily methods.
Q2. Will the morning-after pill affect my next period?
Yes, your period may be early, late, or slightly heavier/lighter.
Q3. Can I take it more than once a month?
You can, but it’s not ideal. Repeated use may disrupt cycles and is less effective.
Q4. Is the copper IUD better than the pill? Yes, it’s the most effective emergency option and also provides long-term contraception.