Emergency contraception can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or if the contraceptive you used didn’t work, for example broken condom or forgetting to take a contraceptive pill.
For this method to work, a woman must use emergency contraception within 72 hours of an unsafe intimate relationship. The sooner you drink it, the more effective it will be.
Remember that although they are very effective when used correctly (within 72 hours after unprotected sex), the contraceptive pill should not be used as a regular method of controlling pregnancy. This is a great option in case of an “emergency”, but it is not as effective as other methods. In addition, such pills contain very high doses of hormones, which, when used regularly, can cause a variety of health problems.
Scientific sources indicate the following side effects of emergency contraception: a possible shortening or change in the menstrual cycle (menstruation starts earlier or later than usual).
In some cases, morning-after pill can cause minor side effects, including:
- nausea;
- headache;
- breast tenderness;
- fatigue;
- temporary changes in the menstrual cycle.
You don’t need a prescription to purchase emergency contraception. Over-the-counter contraceptives can be purchased at any drugstore or online pharmacy.
Remember!
Emergency contraception is an irregular method that can only be used in emergencies and after consulting with your doctor. Also, in any situation, it should be taken into account that although this type of contraception is relatively effective, sometimes it just may not work. If there is vomiting or diarrhea within the next three hours after taking the pill, it may be removed from the body before it can take effect. There are cases where vaginal bleeding occures but it should not continue for more than three days, in which case you have to have immediate medical attention.