Contraception
This is the term used for contraception AFTER you have already had sex. There are two types of pills used, sometimes called the "morning-after pill". Alternatively, women have the option to use an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD), which is known for its even higher effectiveness in preventing pregnancy.
The progestogen pill
Also called Morning- after pill. It is available at many drug stores as an over-the-counter product, and at the moment in India, a prescription is not required to buy these pills.
To maximize the effectiveness of the emergency contraceptive pill, it's essential to take it as soon as possible after having unprotected sex. The sooner you take the pill, the higher the likelihood of its effectiveness. It should be taken within 72 hours. It is thought to work mainly by preventing the release of an egg from your ovary and not causing an abortion.
Ulipristal acetate pill
Ulipristal acetate is another type of emergency contraceptive pill that is taken as one single tablet. It is a type of hormone that seems to work by stopping the release of an egg (ovulation).
Welcome to Silvernest, The best gynae care clinic in Gurgaon!
- Comprehensive and multi disciplinary services
- Patient-centered and supportive approach
- Compliance with general ethics and standards
- State-of-the-art technology and personalized care
More information
Why pills are less likely to be successful?
Some reasons why pills are less likely to be successful:
-If you take the progestogen pill for more than 72 hours or the ulipristal pill for more than 120 hours after unprotected sex.
-Vomiting within 3 hours of taking it
-If you also had unprotected sex at an earlier time or again after the pill.
Is there any alternative contraception method?
An alternative method is to have an intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD) inserted. This can be done up to five days after sex. It has the advantage of providing ongoing contraception. It is nearly 100% effective.
How effective is the progestogen pill?
It is difficult for scientists to work out exactly how effective it is. Out of 1,000 women who engaged in unprotected sexual intercourse on a single occasion, approximately 60 to 80 of them would experience pregnancy. If all those women had taken the pill, only about 11 to 26 would have become pregnant.
How effective is ulipristal acetate?
It may be slightly more effective, particularly when taken between 3-5 days after sex.
Some Facts
If you have any lower tummy pain or abnormal bleeding in the 2-6 weeks following the use of emergency contraception, there may be chances that you have an ectopic pregnancy. Consult your doctor urgently in such a situation. Also, do a pregnancy test if your next due period is more than seven days late.