What is contraception?
What is the Morning After Pill?
The morning after pill is an emergency contraceptive taken to prevent unwanted pregnancy after unprotected sex. It must be taken within a specific time frame.
Contraception is the intentional use of various methods or devices to prevent pregnancy resulting from sexual intercourse. These methods can be broadly categorized into several types, each with its own mechanisms and effectiveness:
Types of Contraception
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Barrier Methods:
- Condoms: Thin sheaths worn on the penis or inside the vagina to block sperm from reaching the egg. They also provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Diaphragms and Cervical Caps: Dome-shaped devices inserted into the vagina to cover the cervix and block sperm entry.
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Hormonal Methods:
- Oral Contraceptives (Pills): Pills containing hormones (estrogen and progestin) that prevent ovulation. They must be taken daily.
- Contraceptive Patches: Adhesive patches that release hormones through the skin to prevent ovulation.
- Vaginal Rings: Flexible rings inserted into the vagina that release hormones to prevent ovulation.
- Injectable Contraceptives: Hormone injections given every three months to prevent ovulation.
- Implants: Small rods placed under the skin of the upper arm that release hormones to prevent pregnancy for up to three years.
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Intrauterine Devices (IUDs):
- Copper IUDs: T-shaped devices inserted into the uterus that release copper to prevent sperm from fertilizing the egg. They can last up to 10 years.
- Hormonal IUDs: T-shaped devices that release hormones to prevent pregnancy and can last up to five years.
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Emergency Contraception:
- Morning After Pills: Pills taken after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. They are most effective when taken as soon as possible after intercourse.
- Copper IUDs: Can also be used as emergency contraception if inserted within five days after unprotected sex.
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Permanent Methods:
- Sterilization: Surgical procedures such as tubal ligation for women (blocking or sealing the fallopian tubes) and vasectomy for men (cutting or sealing the vas deferens) that permanently prevent pregnancy.
How Contraception Works
Contraception works by interfering with the natural process of fertilization and implantation in various ways:
- Preventing Ovulation: Hormonal methods like pills, patches, rings, injections, and implants release hormones that stop the ovaries from releasing eggs.
- Blocking Sperm: Barrier methods like condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps physically block sperm from reaching the egg.
- Altering the Uterine Environment: IUDs change the lining of the uterus or release substances that are toxic to sperm, preventing fertilization and implantation.
- Preventing Fertilization: Emergency contraception pills delay ovulation or prevent the sperm from fertilizing the egg.
How to Take the Morning After Pill
Take the morning after pill as soon as possible after sex. It is a single dose that should be swallowed whole with water.
How Long After Sex Can You Take the Morning After Pill?
There are two types of morning after pills: Levonelle and EllaOne.
- Levonelle: Must be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex.
- EllaOne: Can be taken up to 120 hours after unprotected sex.
The sooner you take the pill after sex, the more effective it will be.
Types of Emergency Contraception
Emergency contraception can be used after unprotected sex. There are two main methods:
- Morning After Pill: The most common form of emergency contraception.
- Copper IUD: Can be fitted by a doctor within 120 hours of unprotected sex and acts as a long-term contraceptive.
Comparison of Emergency Contraceptive Methods
| Criteria | EllaOne | Levonelle | Copper IUD |
|---|---|---|---|
| Effectiveness | 98-99% | 97-99% | Over 99% |
| Effective Up To | 120 hours | 72 hours | 120 hours |
| Prevents Ovulation | Yes | Yes | No |
| Long-Term Contraceptive | No | No | Yes |
| Affected by Weight/BMI | Yes (>85kg or BMI >30) | Yes (>70kg or BMI >26) | No |
| Prevents Fertilization | No | No | Yes |
Comparison of Emergency Contraceptive Methods
Comparison of Emergency Contraceptive Methods
EllaOne
- Effectiveness: 98-99%
- Effective Up To: 120 hours
- Prevents Ovulation: Yes
- Long-Term Contraceptive: No
- Affected by Weight/BMI: Yes (>85kg or BMI >30)
- Prevents Fertilization: No
Levonelle
- Effectiveness: 97-99%
- Effective Up To: 72 hours
- Prevents Ovulation: Yes
- Long-Term Contraceptive: No
- Affected by Weight/BMI: Yes (>70kg or BMI >26)
- Prevents Fertilization: No
Copper IUD
- Effectiveness: Over 99%
- Effective Up To: 120 hours
- Prevents Ovulation: No
- Long-Term Contraceptive: Yes
- Affected by Weight/BMI: No
- Prevents Fertilization: Yes
According to the FSRH, EllaOne is more effective than Levonelle up to 72 hours after unprotected sex, and the copper IUD is the most effective emergency contraceptive option.
Choosing the Right Method
The choice of contraception depends on various factors, including health conditions, convenience, side effects, and personal preferences. It’s important to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the most suitable method based on individual needs and lifestyle.
Contraception allows individuals to plan and space pregnancies, contributing to better health outcomes for both mothers and children. It also provides the freedom to make informed decisions about reproductive health and family planning.
If you need emergency contraception, you can book an urgent appointment with a nurse or doctor. Let the receptionist know it’s urgent, and they will do their best to accommodate you.
For women seeking emergency contraception (the morning after pill), it is available for FREE at: