Effectiveness is highest in the first 24 hours after sex but emergency contraception can be effective up to 5 days after.
Douching changes the normal bacterial and yeast state of your reproductive tract leading to increased infections.
HIV testing usually requires two tests six months apart to ensure a true reading.
The hormone in Plan B is called progestin, or levonorgestrel. Plan B is available over the counter at most pharmacies or from your medical provider. You do not need a prescription for Plan B, and it is not covered under most medical insurance plans. [6] X Research source
Ella requires a prescription from a medical provider. [9] X Research source Ella reduces the risk of pregnancy after unprotected sex by approximately 75%. [10] X Research source There is no current evidence that Ella causes abortions. The “abortion pill” (RU-486, or mifepristone) is only available with a prescription. While both drugs do interact with progesterone, they do so very differently. The dosage in Ella is not high enough to cause an abortion. [11] X Research source
Pills currently available in the US are Plan B (also called My Way, Next Choice, or Take Action), and Ella. In Canada, you can ask for Plan B (also called Option 2, Next Choice, or NorLevo). Ella is not yet available in Canada. If the professional helping you only hears you say “contraceptive,” she might think you are asking for regular oral contraceptives. Be specific to ensure you get what you need.
Be sure you are choosing a regular oral contraceptive that has been shown to be effective in preventing pregnancy. Talk with your doctor or pharmacist if you aren’t sure. [14] X Research source If taken in the proper doses, oral contraceptives reduce the risk of pregnancy after unprotected sex by 75%. This depends on the type of oral contraceptive you have, however. [15] X Research source
The copper IUD works by increasing cervical mucus and repelling sperm. Side effects may include cramping and bleeding between periods. Hormone based IUDs (such as Mirena) do not work as emergency contraceptives but they are an excellent choice of preventative birth control. The IUD can easily be inserted by a professional at a doctor’s office or clinic. You do not need to go to a hospital. Having a copper IUD inserted provides the extra benefit of being effective as a regular birth control method if left in place for up to 10 years. However, they may be expensive, so they may not be your first choice.
You only need to take one dose. Do not take more than the suggested dose or any other birth control pills in addition. The sooner you take Plan B after unprotected sex, the more effective it will be in preventing pregnancy. Plan B reduces the risk of pregnancy after unprotected sex by 95% if taken within the first 24 hours. [19] X Research source
You only need to take one pill. Do not take more than the suggested dose or any other birth control pills in addition.
For example, if you have Levora oral contraceptives, you will take 4 pills at each dose but if you have Aviane, you will take 5 pills at each dose. Be sure to check with a medical professional or pharmacist if you are uncertain how much to take. [21] X Research source Take your first dose within 5 days of unprotected sex, then a second dose 12 hours after the first dose. To use regular oral contraceptives as emergency contraception, you usually have to take two doses. [22] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source Do not miss the second dose or you greatly decrease the chance of successfully preventing a pregnancy.
Emergency contraceptive pills can cause side effects such as nausea, headaches, and dizziness. Be sure to ask your pharmacist or doctor what to expect.
Taking an anti-nauseant one to two hours before taking your emergency contraceptive may prevent you from throwing up the emergency contraceptive. If you throw up within an hour of taking the emergency contraceptive, call your medical provider to see if you should take another dose.
You may be additionally drowsy, especially if you have also taken an anti-nauseant.
