Emergency contraception (EC) is used to prevent a pregnancy after a woman has had unprotected sex. EC prevents pregnancy in different ways. It may:
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Prevent the egg from leaving the ovary.
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Stop the sperm from reaching the egg.
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Keep the fertilized egg from attaching to the uterus.
EC is sometimes called the “morning after pill.” But this name is misleading. Some types of EC can work up to 5 days after having sex, not just the morning after. EC is not an abortion pill. It doesn't work if you're already pregnant. If you are overweight or obese, certain types of EC may not work as well for you. Talk with your health care provider about your choices.
When to use EC
You may want to use EC in any of the following types of cases:
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You had sex without birth control (unprotected sex).
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You were forced to have sex.
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You were using a condom but it broke or came off.
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You forgot to take your pill or missed your shot.
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You suspect that your ring, patch, diaphragm, cervical cap, sponge, or spermicide was not used correctly.
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You use the natural family planning method and had unprotected sex at a time when you are likely to become pregnant. (This is usually week 2 of a 4-week cycle, if your periods are regular.)
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You were using the withdrawal method, and your partner didn’t pull out in time.
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Your IUD came out.
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You think your regular birth control method failed.
Note: EC does not protect you from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). To protect against STIs when having sex, you must always use a condom. This is true even when you use another method of birth control.
Types of EC
Oral medicine
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Levonorgestrel (available over the counter).
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Ulipristal acetate (prescription only).
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A high dose of certain brands of birth control pills (BCPs) can also be used as EC. Talk with your provider to learn more about this choice. BCPs need a prescription.
EC can cause side effects in some women. These can include nausea, vomiting, sore breasts, and headaches. If needed, you can buy medicine over the counter or prescribed to help prevent nausea and vomiting. Talk with a health care provider or a pharmacist to learn more.
Insertion of a copper intrauterine device (IUD)
When an IUD is used as a form of EC, it must be placed into the uterus by a trained health care provider within 5 days after having unprotected sex. The IUD can be removed after your next period. Or it can be left in place for ongoing birth control. Talk with your provider to learn more.
How well EC works
When used correctly, EC works very well to prevent pregnancy. It's most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex or suspected failure of birth control. Ideally, EC should be taken within 72 hours. But it can be used up to 120 hours after sex. Ask your provider or pharmacist for details on exactly how well different types of EC work.
Home care
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Take EC exactly as directed.
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If you don't get your period in 3 weeks, use a home pregnancy test or see a health care provider to find out if you are pregnant.
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If you have sex before your next period starts, be sure to use another birth control method.
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If you are not using birth control regularly, see a provider to learn more about your choices. You may also go to a local family planning clinic.
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Don't rely on EC as a form of regular birth control.
Follow-up care
Follow up with your health care provider, if needed.
When to call your doctor
Call your health care provider right away if:
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You throw up (vomit) within 3 hours of taking EC.
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You have severe side effects from taking EC.
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You have fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher, or as advised by your provider.
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You have irregular vaginal bleeding.
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You have heavy vaginal bleeding. This means soaking 1 pad an hour for 3 hours.
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You feel weak, dizzy, or faint when standing.
Resources
To learn more about EC, visit Office on Women’s Health, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services at www.womenshealth.gov or call 800-994-9662.
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