Emergency contraception is a form of contraception that can be taken by the woman after sex. Emergency contraception can not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. Emergency contraception may prevent a pregnancy. The drugs that are used for emergency contraception are based on hormones.
Emergency contraception needs to be applied soon after the unprotected sex. If it is not applied within about 3 days (72 hours) after the event, it will no longer help to prevent pregnancy. The sooner the drug is taken after unprotected sex, the more effective it is.[1]
The drugs work by either:
- Stopping or delaying ovulation, the ovaries from releasing an egg or ovum;
- Preventing sperm from fertilising any egg already released; or
- Stopping a fertilised egg from attaching itself to the lining of the womb.[1]
It is estimated that these drugs may prevent 85% of expected pregnancies.[1]
The drugs will not work if the woman is already pregnant.[1] The drugs will also not work for preventing pregnancy from unprotected sex again in the same menstrual cycle.[1]
Often the drugs are available in pharmacies. In some countries, the affected person needs to talk to a healthcare professional (a doctor or a pharmacist). After this counseling, the drugs can be obtained.
Different from abortion
Emergency contraception is not a form of abortion. Abortion is only possible when a pregnancy has started. This means that the ovum has been fertilized, and that it has attached itself to the lining of the womb. Contraception is about preventing a pregnancy. There are certain pills, for example those containing Mifepristone which are taken as a form of abortion.
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