Emergency Contraception: What You Need to Know
Emergency contraception (EC) is a simple and easy method of avoiding pregnancy after a slip-up or failure of contraception, such as a missed birth control pill or a failed condom. It should be noted that EC is distinct from an abortion pill. It functions by keeping pregnancy from occurring in the first place and does not harm an established pregnancy.
There are several kinds of emergency contraception, each with its benefits, timing, and issues. Here’s a rundown to help you better know your choices.
Types of Emergency Contraception
1. Levonorgestrel-Based Pills (such as Plan B One-Step and generics)
These are the most popular EC pills and can be purchased over the counter, without a prescription required. They have levonorgestrel, an artificial hormone that keeps you from ovulating or delays ovulation.
- Best taken within 24 hours of unprotected sex (up to 95% effective).
- Time window: Still effective for up to 72 hours, although it reduces over time.
2. Ulipristal Acetate (ella)
These prescription-only tablets have ulipristal acetate, which inhibits the action of progesterone and postpones ovulation. It’s a powerful choice, particularly if you are nearing ovulation.
- Effective until: 5 days after unprotected sex.
- Major advantage: Respects consistent effectiveness within the 5-day interval.
3. Copper IUD
The most effective emergency contraceptive is the copper intrauterine device (IUD). It has to be inserted by a healthcare professional, but it can also prevent pregnancy and serve as long-term birth control.
- Has to be inserted within 5–7 days of unprotected intercourse.
- Bonus: Can serve as regular contraception for as long as 10–12 years.
4. Combined Oral Contraceptives (Yuzpe Method)
This process involves taking specific amounts of usual birth control pills with estrogen and progestin. It is less effective than other forms of EC and has more side effects, but it’s available when other methods aren’t.
- Best used within 72 hours after unprotected sex.
- Requires: Two pills taken 12 hours apart.
Effectiveness & Timing Matter
Emergency contraception is most effective the sooner it’s taken. Levonorgestrel tablets are most effective within 24 hours. Ulipristal and copper IUDs are also very effective up to five days later, with the copper IUD having well over 99% effectiveness in preventing pregnancy.
Does Weight or BMI Influence EC?
What the Research Indicates:
There has been continued debate regarding how body weight could affect the efficacy of EC pills, specifically those with levonorgestrel. Various studies indicate that those who weigh more than 155–165 pounds (70–75 kg) could find them less effective, with pregnancy rates marginally increased in more heavily weighted individuals or with greater BMI. For instance, research discovered a 6.4% rate of pregnancy in those weighing approximately 176 pounds (80 kg), as opposed to 1.4% in those who weighed less.
Nonetheless, other studies revealed limited variation. Despite controversy, the use of Plan B is considerably more effective than doing nothing at all.
Current Recommendations:
The FDA did not alter its advice on the basis of weight, and Plan B is still accessible for all persons, independent of size. However, healthcare professionals and organizations such as Planned Parenthood suggest a consideration of ulipristal acetate or the copper IUD when you are heavier than 155 pounds, since these are not reported to be influenced by weight.
Side Effects & Safety
Emergency contraception is usually well tolerated. Side effects of EC pills are usually as follows:
- Nausea or vomiting
- Abdominal pain or cramping
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Tenderness of the breasts
- Alteration in your next period
If you vomit within several hours of swallowing a pill, you may have to take it again—see package instructions for guidance. Insertion of a copper IUD is painful or crampy for a brief duration, and infection or expulsion is an unlikely risk.
EC pills will not harm an already existing pregnancy and are not associated with birth defects if taken by mistake while pregnant.
Access
- Plan B and generics are available over the counter at most clinics and pharmacies.
- Ella (ulipristal): Requires a prescription from a healthcare provider.
- Copper IUD: Must be inserted by a health professional, but has long-lasting protection.
- Teens: Teens can obtain emergency contraception without telling their parents in most places.
If your menstrual period is overdue by over three weeks because you have used EC, you should do a pregnancy test.
Emergency contraception is very effective and safe for preventing pregnancy after unprotected sex. In case you’re unsure about what the best form of EC is for your case, particularly if you worry about weight influencing effectiveness, talk with a healthcare provider for individual advice. The sooner you act, the better EC will work.