Emergency Contraception

About Emergency Contraceptive Pills

Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECPs), also known as morning-after pills, are used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. They are most effective when taken as soon as possible after the event, ideally within 72 hours but can be effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected intercourse. ECPs work primarily by delaying or preventing ovulation; they do not end a pregnancy that has already been established.

Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECPs), also known as morning-after pills, are used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. They are most effective when taken as soon as possible after the event, ideally within 72 hours but can be effective up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected intercourse. Emergency Contraceptive Pills work primarily by delaying or preventing ovulation; they do not end a pregnancy that has already been established.

● Types of Pills: There are mainly two types of ECPs available: those containing levonorgestrel (Plan B One-Step, and others) and those containing ulipristal acetate (EllaOne).
● Usage: ECPs are intended for occasional use and are not meant as a primary method of contraception. They are a reliable backup option if you’ve had unprotected sex, missed a birth control pill, or experienced a contraceptive mishap.
● Effectiveness: These pills reduce the chance of pregnancy significantly if taken promptly after unprotected sex. Their effectiveness decreases the longer the delay in taking them after the intercourse.
● Safety: ECPs are safe for most women, including adolescents. Side effects, if any, are usually minor and may include nausea, headache, or dizziness.

ECPs do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and are not intended to replace regular contraceptive methods. They are a critical option for preventing unintended pregnancies, especially in emergency situations.

Symptoms

Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECPs) are intended to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure, and do not treat symptoms of pregnancy itself. However, understanding the signs of early pregnancy can help differentiate between the effects of ECPs and potential pregnancy:

Common Early Pregnancy Symptoms:

● Missed Period: The most notable sign of pregnancy, though ECPs can also cause menstrual changes.
● Nausea with or without Vomiting: Often referred to as morning sickness, this can start within a few weeks of conception.
● Tender, Swollen Breasts: Hormonal changes might make breasts sensitive and sore early in pregnancy.
● Increased Urination: You might find yourself urinating more often than usual.
● Fatigue: Tiredness is also a common early sign of pregnancy due to increased levels of the hormone progesterone.

Effects of Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills:

● Menstrual Changes: ECPs can alter your menstrual cycle, causing your period to come earlier or later, or change its flow.
● Nausea: Some women experience nausea after taking ECPs, similar to morning sickness.
● Abdominal Pain or Cramps: This can also be a symptom of early pregnancy but is commonly reported after taking ECPs.
● Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired can occur following the use of ECPs.

It’s important to note that while some symptoms might overlap, ECPs are used solely for preventing pregnancy and do not terminate an existing one. If you suspect you might be pregnant due to persistent symptoms or missed periods, it is advisable to take a pregnancy test and consult with a healthcare provider. Furthermore, if symptoms persist after taking an ECP, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended to rule out any complications or underlying conditions.

Diagnosis

Pregnancy can be diagnosed using several methods, each detecting different signs or substances associated with pregnancy:

● Home Pregnancy Tests: These detect the hormone hCG in urine, indicating pregnancy when positive.
● Blood Tests: Provide a more accurate detection of hCG and can confirm pregnancy earlier than urine tests.
● Ultrasound: Visualises the embryo or foetus in the uterus, confirming the pregnancy and assessing its development.
● Healthcare Consultation: A doctor can provide a comprehensive diagnosis using medical history, physical exams, and the above tests.

Treatments

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) like Levonelle are specifically designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. Here are some highlighted products that we offer:

Levonelle 1500 mcg Morning After Pill – 1 Tablet

● Usage: Levonelle should be taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse to be most effective. It works primarily by preventing or delaying ovulation.
● Active Ingredient: Contains levonorgestrel, which is a synthetic hormone similar to progesterone. It prevents the release of an egg and increases cervical mucus thickness, making it difficult for sperm to enter the womb.
● Effectiveness: It is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, with its effectiveness decreasing over time. Within 24 hours, it can prevent about 95% of expected pregnancies, dropping to 58% if taken between 48 to 72 hours after unprotected sex.

Levonorgestrel 1.5 mg Morning After Pill (1 Tablet)

● Usage: This pill also needs to be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex, with similar effectiveness rates to Levonelle.
● Active Ingredient: Also contains levonorgestrel. The mechanism of action includes preventing ovulation and thickening cervical mucus.
● Effectiveness: Like Levonelle, the sooner it is taken, the more effective it is at preventing pregnancy.

Both products are essentially the same, containing the same active ingredient and dosage, and are used under similar conditions to achieve the same outcome: prevention of pregnancy following unprotected intercourse.

● Side Effects: Common side effects for both may include nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, headache, and changes in menstrual flow. These side effects are generally mild and temporary.
● Considerations: It’s important to note that neither pill will terminate an existing pregnancy and neither protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). They should not be used as regular contraception but only in emergency situations.

For those concerned about the effectiveness of Levonorgestrel due to body weight or other factors, consulting a healthcare professional is recommended to ensure the most effective form of emergency contraception is used.

Prevention Strategies

Here are some effective prevention strategies to ensure the use of emergency contraception (EC) is as effective as possible in preventing pregnancy:

● Timely Usage: The sooner emergency contraception pills are used after unprotected sex, the more effective they are. Levonorgestrel-based pills (like Levonelle) should be taken within 72 hours, and ulipristal acetate-based pills can be effective up to 120 hours after unprotected sex. However, for both types, earlier use increases effectiveness.
● Correct Usage: Follow the instructions carefully for whichever form of pill you choose. If vomiting occurs within 3 hours of taking a pill, another dose may be required.
● Accessibility: Keep these pills accessible if you are at risk of unprotected sex. This means knowing where to obtain the pills quickly—whether from pharmacies, health clinics, or through online services. In some places, you can even keep a dose at home.
● Understand Limitations: emergency contraception pills are not as effective as regular contraceptive methods and should not be used as a primary form of birth control. Also, they do not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
● Weight Considerations: Be aware that the effectiveness of emergency contraception pills can be reduced in individuals over a certain weight. For those with a higher body mass index (BMI), consulting a healthcare provider for the most effective options is advisable.
● Alternative Options: If more than 72 hours have passed since unprotected sex, consider an intrauterine device (IUD) for emergency contraception, which can be effective up to 5 days after unprotected sex and continues to provide long-term contraception.

By implementing these strategies, you can maximise the effectiveness of emergency contraception and better manage reproductive health.

Related Reading

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