An emergency pill can be used by most women to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Even those who are not able to use other hormonal contraception like the contraceptive patch or combined pill can safely use this option. Only in cases of allergy, asthma or interaction of other medications is it not possible to take the emergency contraceptive pills.
Hormone pills contain levonorgestrel which is a synthetic version of the natural hormone progesterone produced in the ovaries. Consuming it will successfully stop or delay the ovulation time. It will not interfere with regular contraceptive methods and has to be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. In cases of breastfeeding, a small number of hormones in the pill may pass through the breast milk but it is said that it is not harmful to the baby.
In case of regular use of contraception, the need to use the emergency contraceptive pill arises when:
- One forgets to take the regular contraceptive pill
- One has not used a contraceptive patch or vaginal ring properly
- There is a delay in having a contraceptive implant or injection
Medicines such as the following could react adversely with an emergency contraceptive pill:
- Medicine used to treat seizures
- HIV or tuberculosis medication
- Medicines that reduce stomach acid
- Antibiotics
IUD
The intrauterine device (IUD) is a nonhormonal contraceptive. It also works as an emergency contraceptive. It is a small plastic and copper device shaped like a T that gets inserted into the uterus by a physician. It works by releasing copper which stops the egg from implanting in the womb or being fertilized. To prevent pregnancy, the IUD can be inserted up to 5 days after unprotected sex or up to 5 days after the earliest time of ovulation. There is also a choice to continue using the IUD as a regular contraceptive method.
Most women including who are HIV positive can use an IUD, unlike an emergency contraceptive pill. It is essential for the doctor to know of the patient’s medical history to check if an IUD is suitable.
An IUD will not suit those who have:
- Untreated sexually transmitted infections
- Pelvic infections
- Problems with the uterus or cervix
- Unexplained bleeding between periods or after sex
The emergency IUD does not react to other medicines that are taken. It is safe to use even while breastfeeding and will not affect the supply of milk. It should not be inserted in cases of pregnancy or in situations where one suspects they may be pregnant.
It is very rare that complications arise after having an IUD fitted. But certain complications that can arise from this procedure are:
- Pain
- Infection
- Damage to the womb
- The chances of IUD slipping out of the womb
- Heavier, longer, and more painful periods
These complications arise only if you continue to use the IUD as a regular method of contraception.
It has to be noted that emergency contraception will not protect against sexually transmitted diseases or will not facilitate abortion. There are certain dos and don’ts that must be followed while taking an emergency contraceptive pill such as avoiding operating heavy machinery immediately after taking it and limiting the intake of alcoholic beverages. These tips help one stay safe and healthy after taking the pill.
