HEALTH EDUCATION

Emergency contraception

What it is
Emergency contraception can prevent pregnancy after unprotected vaginal intercourse. It is also called post-coital or "morning-after" contraception. It does not cause an abortion. It’s provided in two ways:

• Emergency contraception pills (ECPs)


• Insertion of an IUD 

ECPs prevent pregnancy by stopping ovulation or fertilization.
IUDs prevent fertilization.

How effective is it?
Combined ECPs reduce the risk of pregnancy by 75% if started within 120 hours of unprotected intercourse.

You may want emergency contraception if:

• The condom broke or slipped off, and he ejaculated inside your vagina.


• You forgot to take your birth control pills.


• Your diaphragm, cap, or shield slipped out of place, and he ejaculated inside your vagina.


• You miscalculated your "safe" days.


• He didn’t pull out in time.


• You weren’t using any birth control.


• He forced you to have unprotected vaginal sex.
  
  

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