Emergency Contraception
If you have had sex without using contraception or think that your contraception might have failed, taking emergency contraception will usually prevent a pregnancy.
Two types of emergency contraception are available - the Emergency Contraceptive Pill (ECP) or the Intra Uterine Device (IUD).
Emergency Contraceptive Pill (ECP)
The ECP is sometimes known as the "morning after pill". This is misleading because it can be used up to three days (72 hours) after sex. However, the sooner it is taken after unprotected sex the more effective it will be. The ECP is a progestogen only pill. You can use the ECP more than once.
How does the pill work?
The ECP prevents pregnancy by
- Preventing the passage of sperm through a womans genital system
- Delaying the release of an egg from the ovary until sperm are no longer active
How do I take the pill?
You are given the pill to be taken in one or two doses. Tell your health professional if you are taking any other medication because you may need extra pills.
The pill should be started within 72 hours of unprotected sex but in the first 24 hours if possible. Timing is very important. It helps to take the pill with food.
Some women feel sick after taking the ECP. If you vomit within three hours of taking the emergency contraceptive pill you will need another dose. Contact your health professional.
What happens next?
Your period will probably come at the expected time but it may be early or late. Sometimes it is heavier than usual. You should have a pregnancy test three to four weeks after you had the ECP if
- You do not get your period at all
- Your period is very light
- You are worried that you may be pregnant
- Your period is more painful than usual
You can find out more about pregnancy testing here
If you want to talk to a someone about the emergency contraceptive pill don't delay - see someone as soon as possible. You can get emergency contraception from:
Intra Uterine Device (IUD)
An IUD is a small piece of plastic with copper wire wrapped around it that is put into a woman's uterus (womb) by a doctor to prevent pregnancy. It can be used up to five days after ovulation (when the egg will have been fertilised).
How does the IUD work?
The IUD prevents the egg from implanting into the uterus.
Where do I get it?
The IUD needs to be inserted by an experienced doctor. Many Family Planning doctors are trained to do this or you can ask your own doctor. The IUD is not suitable for some women, particularly if there is a risk of a sexually transmissible infection. Discuss this with your doctor.
What happens next?
You will be given detailed instructions on caring for your IUD when it is inserted and will need to have a check up a few weeks after insertion.
Some women use an IUD as an ongoing form of contraception or you may choose to have it removed after the risk of pregnancy has passed. A doctor will need to remove the IUD.
If the IUD was used as emergency contraception after unprotected sex you may need to have a pregnancy test three to four weeks after you had the IUD inserted.
You can find out more about pregnancy testing here
If you want to talk to a someone about the IUD don't delay - see someone as soon as possible. You can get emergency contraception from: