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It is also known as post-coital contraception. Birth control measure was taken by women to prevent the risk of conception following unprotected sex.
Used only for specific emergency conditions like rape, condom break or slip off or missing birth-control pills for more than 2 days.
Emergency Contraception is used to prevent pregnancy, not to end one.
Emergency Contraception methods are of two types:
1)Pill form
2)IUD
There are 3 types of contraception in pill form:
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Levonorgestrel-containing pill – Dosage is 150 mcg to be consumed within 72 hours of unprotected sex. Acts by temporarily blocking egg release, its fertilization or implantation of fertilized egg.90% effective if taken as directed.
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OCPs can also be used but higher doses may be required and may cause nausea. Also, efficacy is lower.
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Ulipristal can also be used as a single tablet in a single dose. It can’t be purchased without a prescription. MOA is by blocking the key hormones required for conception. Can be taken up to 120 hours after unprotected sex.
Other than pills, IUCDs like multi-load can be inserted within 5 days of unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. MOA is the prevention of implantation of a fertilized egg.
Efficacy of Emergency Contraception
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If taken as directed after unprotected sex, it prevents pregnancy in 90% of women.
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It may lose effectiveness in obese females. In them, IUCDs and Ella are effective.
Who Should Not Use ECPs
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Levonorgestrel will not affect an implanted pregnancy. Ulipristal not to be used in the already pregnant female.
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women having chronic medical condition should first consult a gynaecologist in Dwarka, Delhi.
Emergency Contraception Side Effects
Nausea, Abdominal pain, Fatigue, Headache, or menstrual disorder are some side-effects of emergency contraception. Visit the best gyne hospital in Delhi to know more about pregnancy tips.
HOD And Consultant - Obstetrics & Gynaecology
Manipal Hospitals, Dwarka, Delhi
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