Emergency Contraception

Emergency Contraception prevents pregnancy by stopping sperm fertilising an egg. It does not cause an abortion.

What is it?

• Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECP) or IUD (Intra Uterine Device) used after unprotected sexual intercourse

How does it work?

• delays ovulation or prevents implantation of fertilised egg

Chance of getting pregnant

• ECP - 1-4% (however the chance of pregnancy increases depending on how many hours after sex you took the pills.)
• IUD - less than 1%

Health Concerns

• ECP - is safe for almost everybody
• IUD - risk of pelvic infection if STI present

Advantages

• reduces chance of pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse
• ECP - can be used up to 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse but still come and talk to us if you are over 72hours.
• can have ECP at home for future use
• can be used if other method fails, eg. burst condom or missed pill

Disadvantages

• must be provided by a doctor
• ECP must be started within 72 hours of unprotected sexual intercourse. More effective within 24 hours.
• ECP can sometimes make you feel sick or vomit
• IUD can be uncomfortable when put in

Important to have a pregnancy test 2-3 weeks after the emergency pill to make sure it has worked.  It is also important to have an STI check 2-3 weeks after unprotected sex.