It’s a situation that many of us hope to never find ourselves in: you’ve had unprotected sex and are at risk of unwanted pregnancy. What do you do? One option is the morning after pill, also known as emergency contraception. But what exactly is the morning after pill and how does it work? Here are five things you need to know about this form of contraception.
1. The morning after pill is not the same as abortion
First and foremost, it’s important to understand that the morning after pill is not the same as abortion. The morning after pill is a form of emergency contraception that can be taken after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. It is not intended for use as a regular method of contraception and is not effective once a pregnancy has been established. If you think you may be pregnant, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider for guidance.
2. There are different types of morning after pills
There are two main types of morning after pills: levonorgestrel and ulipristal acetate. Levonorgestrel is available over-the-counter without a prescription at many pharmacies and is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. Ulipristal acetate is available only with a prescription and is more effective the sooner it is taken, but can be taken up to 72 hours after unprotected sex. It’s important to note that both types of morning after pills are more effective the sooner they are taken after unprotected sex.
3. The Morning After Pill is not as effective as regular contraception
While the it’s can be a helpful backup option in case of unprotected sex or contraceptive failure, it is not as effective as regular contraception methods such as the pill, patch, or IUD. The morning after pill is estimated to be about 75% effective at preventing pregnancy, while regular contraception methods are over 90% effective when used consistently and correctly. If you are sexually active and looking to prevent pregnancy, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider to discuss the best contraception options for you.
4. It is not suitable for everyone
Like any medication, the morning after pill is not suitable for everyone and may cause side effects in some people. Common side effects include nausea, vomiting, and fatigue. If you have certain medical conditions or are taking certain medications, the pill of the morning after may not be appropriate for you. It’s important to speak with a healthcare provider before taking the morning after pill to ensure it is safe for you.
5. It is widely available but not always easy to access
The morning after pill is widely available in many countries, but access can vary depending on where you live and your personal circumstances. In some places, the morning after pill may be available over-the-counter without a prescription, while in others it may require a prescription or may not be available at all. It’s important to be aware of the availability and accessibility of the morning after pill in your area and to plan accordingly. If you think you may need the morning after pill in the future, it may be helpful to obtain it in advance.
In conclusion, the morning after pill is a form of emergency contraception that can be taken after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. It is important to understand that it is not the same as abortion and is not as effective as regular contraception methods. The morning after pill is not suitable for everyone and access can vary depending on where you live. If you have had unprotected sex and are at risk of unwanted pregnancy, it’s important to speak with a healthcare provider for guidance on the best course of action for you.
Please note that this is not a medical advice and it is important to always consult with a healthcare professional for any questions or concerns about your reproductive health.