Emergency contraception (EC), commonly known as “the morning after pill,” is a safe and effective way to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. It can be started up to five days (120 hours) after unprotected sex, but preferably is taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex.
You may want EC if:
• The condom broke or slipped off, and he ejaculated in your vagina.
• You forgot to take your birth control pills, insert your ring, or apply your patch.
• Your diaphragm or cap slipped out of place, and he ejaculated inside your vagina.
• You miscalculated your "safe" days.
• He didn't pull out in time.
• You weren't using any birth control.
• You were forced to have unprotected vaginal sex, or were raped.
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| | Emergency contraception is made of the same hormones found in birth control pills. The hormones in EC work by keeping a woman's ovaries from releasing eggs, or ovulating. Pregnancy cannot happen if there is no egg to join with sperm. The hormones in EC also prevent pregnancy by thickening a woman's cervical mucus. The mucus blocks sperm and keeps it from joining with an egg.
It is important to know that EC does not cause an abortion; it will not disrupt an already established pregnancy! If you are already pregnant at the time you are taking EC, it has no effect on the pregnancy.
For more information or to get EC contact the PPWI health center nearest you (click on Health Center Locations) or call 1-800-230-PLAN. |
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