Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception (EC) is a way to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or if your regular birth control method fails (e.g., broken condom or missed pill).

It is not an abortion pill—it does not work if you’re already pregnant. It simply helps stop pregnancy from happening.

When Should You Use EC?

Use emergency contraception as soon as possible after:

• Being sexually assaulted
  
  ✅ Types of Emergency Contraception:
  There are 3 main options:
• Missing birth control pills
• A condom breaking or slipping
• Unprotected sex

Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECPs) – “Morning-After Pills”

• Levonorgestrel 
  - Use within 3 days (72 hours)
• Ulipristal Acetate (ellaOne)
  - Use within 5 days (120 hours)

How Does EC Work?

• May prevent a fertilized egg from implanting in the uterus
  
  
• May prevent fertilization of the egg
• Delays ovulation (release of an egg)

Possible Side Effects:

• Changes in your next period (earlier, later, heavier, or lighter)
• Nausea or vomiting
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Breast tenderness

What to Do After Taking EC:

• Your period should come within 3 weeks.
• Take a pregnancy test if your period is more than a week late.
• Start or continue regular birth control right away (EC is not meant for regular use).
• Use condoms or backup contraception for the next 7 days, depending on your method.