Emergency Contraception

2

Tweet

Recently there has been a lot of publicity about the launch of a pill which can prevent unwanted pregnancy. A lot of viewers have asked about the safety profile of such drugs. I though it would be prudent to examine this today and try to answer some commonly asked questions.

Emergency contraception - also called post-coital contraception - is a form of birth control that may be used by women who have had unprotected sex or if a contraceptive method fails. The treatment generally is reserved for emergency situations and is not a regular method of birth control.

How Does It Work?

Emergency contraception may prevent pregnancy by temporarily blocking eggs from being produced, by stopping fertilization, or keeping a fertilized egg from becoming implanted in the uterus.

Emergency contraception can be provided in two ways: using hormonal contraceptive pills or inserting a copper-releasing IUD (intrauterine device).

• Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECP) are most commonly used and are taken in two doses. The first dose should be taken as soon as possible within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse, and the second dose 12 hours later.
• An IUD can be inserted to prevent pregnancy within five to seven days after unprotected intercourse.

How Effective Is Emergency Contraception?

The pills are 75-89% effective when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex. An IUD can be up to 99% effective when inserted within 5 to 7 days after unprotected intercourse. The sooner you take an emergency contraceptive method, the more effective it will be at preventing pregnancy.

Who Should Not Use Emergency Contraception?

Emergency contraception should not be used by women who are already pregnant because it is ineffective at terminating established pregnancies.

Are There Any Side Effects Associated With Emergency Contraception?

The most common side effects associated with emergency contraception include:

• Nausea
• Abdominal pain
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Menstrual changes

Does It Protect Against Sexually Transmitted Diseases?

No. Emergency contraception will not protect you from contracting an STD, such as HIV, the virus that causes AIDS. The best way to avoid getting STDs is to limit sexual contact with one uninfected partner. If that is not an option, use a latex condom correctly every time you have sex.

(Dr Amit Varma is Chief Operating Officer and Director Critical Care Medicine at Fortis Flt Lt Rajan Dhall Hospital in Delhi)