What Is Emergency Contraception?

Emergency contraception (EC) is birth control you can use after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. It's sometimes called the "morning-after pill," but you don't have to wait until morning to use it. The sooner you take it, the better it works.

When Would You Need It?

You might use emergency contraception if:

• You forgot to take your birth control pills
• A condom broke or slipped off
• You didn't use birth control during sex

Types of Emergency Contraception

There are several options available:

Plan B and similar pills contain levonorgestrel. You can buy these at most drugstores without a prescription. They work best within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex.

Ella (ulipristal acetate) requires a prescription. It works well for up to 5 days after unprotected sex and stays effective longer than Plan B.

Copper IUD (Paragard) is the most effective option. A healthcare provider inserts it within 5 days of unprotected sex. It can also serve as long-term birth control for up to 10 years.

How Does Emergency Contraception Work?

Emergency contraception pills work mainly by preventing or delaying ovulation (when an egg is released from the ovary). If ovulation doesn't happen, sperm cannot fertilize an egg, so pregnancy cannot occur.

The copper IUD works differently. It creates a change in the uterus that prevents sperm from reaching the egg.

Important: Emergency contraception is not the same as an abortion pill. It prevents pregnancy before it starts—it cannot end an existing pregnancy.

How Effective Is It?

Effectiveness depends on the method and how quickly you use it:

• Copper IUD: Over 99% effective
• Ella: About 85% effective within 5 days
• Plan B: Up to 89% effective within 72 hours

Side Effects

EC pills are very safe. Common side effects are mild and may include headache, nausea, tiredness, and changes to your next period. These usually go away on their own.

If you don't get your period within 3 weeks of taking emergency contraception, take a pregnancy test.