Morning After Pill FAQ

What is emergency contraception?

Emergency contraception is a measure that aims to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex.

How should we use ECPs?

a) Combined oral contraceptives

Each dose contains at least 0.1 mg to 0.5 mg ethinyl estradiol and levonorgestrel. The first dose (4 pills with low dose pills or 2 high dose) must be taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex. Then repeat the same dose 12 hours later.

b) progestin pills

Each dose contains at least 0.75 mg of levonorgestrel. The first dose (one pill specially formulated for emergency contraception or 20 regular progestin pills) must be taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex. Then repeat the same dose 12 hours later.

What is the mechanism of action of ECPs?

Emergency contraceptive pills do not disturb established pregnancy. The ECPs varies with the menstrual cycle phase. They are presumed power:

* Remove or delaying ovulation
* Acting after ovulation

When to use ECPs?

They should be started within 72 hours after the reports, when:

* No contraceptive has been used
* The contraceptive fails (eg breakage or slippage of condoms)
* The contraceptive is used incorrectly (eg forgetting to take the pill)
* The woman has been raped or forced

The effectiveness of ECPs after unprotected sex is all the greater they are administered quickly.

Who can use ECPs?

Any woman of reproductive age who has unprotected sex and who:

* Does not want to get pregnant
* Did not against indications

Benefits

* Safe, effective and easy to use
* Use at any time during the menstrual cycle
* Pills available in most places
* Provision possible without a prescription
* No consultation or medical examination required

Disadvantages

* No protection against STDs
* Side effects in the short term

Possible side effects

* Nausea
* Vomiting
* Headaches
* Dizziness
* Fatigue
* Voltage breast

Side effects are much more frequent with oral contraceptives combined with progestin pills. They generally persist until 24 hours after administration of second dose.

Counseling
* Any symptom or concern score
* Common Side Effects
* Need a method of contraception
* Prevention of STD and HIV

Dispelling myths about ECPs
Emergency contraceptive pills:

* DO NOT cause abortion
* Have no adverse effects on pregnancy