Emergency Contraception

Fact: Emergency contraception is a secondary method of contraception. It can be used up to 72 hours after unprotected sex. It is more effective if it is taken after sex or as soon as possible. It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

What to do if your contraception fails

If you have had sex without using contraception or if you think your method might have failed (e.g. burst condom or forgotten pill) you can use emergency contraception. This will usually stop you becoming pregnant. A tablet containing a progestogen hormone (levonorgestrel - Levonelle®) is most commonly used. The second option is to have a copper coil (IUCD) fitted. Emergency contraception can be obtained through your GP, local doctor or a sexual health (family-planning) clinic. To find a GP/Doctor or clinic continue reading

When can you use it?

It can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex, but it’s best to take it as soon as possible after having ‘risky’ or unprotected sex. The coil can be fitted up to five days after unprotected sex and it must be fitted by a trained doctor.

How effective is the method?

The emergency contraceptive tablet is very effective. The failure rate is between 1 and 3%. It is more effective the sooner it is taken after unprotected sex. The failure rate for the coil insertion is lower (less than 1%).

How does it work?

The tablet may stop or delay an egg being released (ovulation) or it may stop a fertilised egg settling in your womb (implantation). Emergency contraception prevents pregnancy and does not cause abortion. Abortion can only take place after a fertilised egg has implanted in the womb. People who believe that life begins when the egg is fertilised may not wish to use this method.

Are there side effects?

  1. Some women may feel sick after taking emergency contraception but vomiting is extremely rare. If you vomit within 3 hours of taking the tablet you should consult your doctor, as the dose may need to be repeated.
  2. The tablet can also alter your menstrual cycle. You may have some irregular bleeding after taking emergency contraception. This is not harmful.
  3. Your next period may arrive a little early or a little late. If your period is more than 10 days late, you should consult your doctor because of the risk that you might be pregnant. If emergency contraception fails and you find yourself pregnant, there is no proof that it causes any harm to the developing baby.
  4. There are other potential complications in having a coil (IUCD) inserted and your doctor will discuss them with you.

Who is suitable?

Emergency contraception is suitable for most women. If you have any medical condition or are on medications, your doctor will be able to advise you.

How often can it be taken?

Emergency contraception should only be used in an emergency. It is not suitable for regular use as other methods are more reliable over time. There are many forms of contraception you can use regularly and you should seek advice from your doctor on a method that would be suitable for you.

What do you do next?

If you were already taking the contraceptive pill you can restart taking it the day after taking emergency contraception. You should also do a pregnancy test at the end of your packet. You can still get pregnant after using emergency contraception if you have further episodes of unprotected sex before your next period.

What other issues should you consider?

Remember that having unprotected sex puts you at risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections. You can discuss the risks of infection and the need for tests with your doctor. This is also a good time to discuss your future contraception. There are many different options and your doctor can help you choose a method to suit you and your partner.

Source: Irish College of General Practitioners