What are the different types of emergency contraceptives?
There are two types of emergency contraceptives: Copper IUDs (must be inserted within 5 days of unprotected intercourse) or the “morning-after pill” (also known as the emergency contraceptive pill) that can be taken up to 3-5 days after sex *Postpil specifically can be taken 72 hours after sex.
How does the emergency pill work and is it effective?
Emergency contraceptive pills work by preventing or delaying ovulation. The pregnancy rate is 1.2% to 2.1%, and they are more effective the sooner they are taken after unprotected sex. Women of all ages can take emergency contraceptive pills even if they cannot take regular hormonal contraception. There are no long term effects on fertility, no risk of cancer or ectopic pregnancy.
Is the morning-after pill safe? What are the side effects?
The morning-after pill is safe. No serious complications have been reported. However, it contains the same hormones as the daily pill and can have some side effects such as nausea, dizziness, fatigue, headache, breast tenderness, bleeding between periods and lower abdominal pain.
