What Is Emergency Contraception?

Emergency contraception is a way to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. Often called the morning-after pill, emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are pills that can be taken up to 120 hours (five days) after having unprotected sex. Some types of emergency contraception work best when taken within 72 hours (three days) after intercourse.

The copper IUD can sometimes be used as a form of emergency contraception.

How Does the Emergency Contraception Pill Work?

Emergency contraceptive pills work by delaying ovulation (the release of an egg during the monthly cycle). If fertilization and implantation have already happened, ECPs will not interrupt the pregnancy.

Does It Help Prevent STDs?

No. Emergency contraception does not protect against STDs. Couples having sex must always use condoms to protect against STDs even when using another birth control method.

How Well Does It Work to Prevent Pregnancy?

About one or two in every 100 women who use ECPs will become pregnant despite taking the pills within 72 hours after having unprotected sex. It does not prevent all pregnancies. So, see a doctor if you don't get your next expected period after taking ECPs.

The "morning-after" name is somewhat misleading: You don't have to wait until the next morning to take ECPs. Emergency contraception is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex.

Emergency contraception will not prevent pregnancy if unprotected sex happens after taking the ECPs.

Are There Side Effects of Emergency Contraception?

ECPs can cause some minor side effects for a few days, including:

• nausea
• vomiting
• breast tenderness
• headaches
• spotting

These usually are minor, and most improve within one to two days. A girl's menstrual period may be temporarily irregular after she takes ECPs.

Who Can Use Emergency Contraception & When?

Emergency contraception is an option if:

• a condom breaks or slips off
• a diaphragm or cervical cap slips out of place
• a hormonal method is used incorrectly (for example, birth control pills are missed for two days in a row)
• you forgot to use birth control or didn’t use any

ECPs are also available to young women who are forced to have unprotected sex.

When It's Not Recommended

Emergency contraception is not recommended:

• for people who know they are pregnant
• as a regular birth control method (It's designed for emergencies.)

Where Can I Get Emergency Contraception?

Some types of emergency contraceptive pills are available over the counter at drugstores and pharmacies for anyone of any age without a prescription. Over-the-counter pills may not work for people who weigh more than 165 pounds. In that case, talk to your doctor for other options that may work better.

One type of emergency contraception (which works well up to five days after unprotected sex) is only available by prescription.

A copper IUD used for emergency contraception needs to be placed by a doctor or nurse practitioner. This can be done at a doctor's office or a health clinic, like Planned Parenthood.

How Much Does It Cost?

Depending on the type of pills prescribed, the cost of ECPs varies, but are generally less than $50. Many health insurance plans cover the cost of emergency contraception and family planning clinics (such as Planned Parenthood) charge much less.

When Should I Call the Doctor?

Someone who uses emergency contraception should call the doctor if they:

• might be pregnant
• have a change in the smell or color of vaginal discharge
• have unexplained fever or chills
• have belly or pelvic pain
• have pain during sex
• have heavy or long-lasting vaginal bleeding
• miss their period within four weeks of using emergency contraception