Only copper coil is effective after ovulation !
What is emergency contraception?
Emergency contraception (EC) reduces the risk of pregnancy after unprotected vaginal intercourse (UPSI) or when contraception has failed (for example a condom breaking or missed pills).
Emergency contraception works by preventing or delaying ovulation or fertilisation, depending on the method used.
The sooner emergency contraception is used, the more effective it is.
What types of emergency contraception are available?
There are three main types of emergency contraception.
Copper coil (non-hormonal IUD)
The copper intrauterine device (Cu-IUD), also known as the copper coil, is the most effective form of emergency contraception.
It works mainly by preventing fertilisation through its effect on sperm and the egg. If fertilisation has already occurred, the presence of the copper coil creates an environment in the uterus that prevents implantation.
The copper coil can be inserted:
• Within 5 days of unprotected vaginal intercourse, or
• Within 5 days of the earliest estimated day of ovulation
It is the only method of emergency contraception that remains effective after ovulation has taken place.
Another advantage is that it provides immediate and ongoing contraception if you choose to keep it in place.
Ulipristal acetate emergency contraception tablet
Ulipristal acetate is a hormonal emergency contraception tablet that works by delaying ovulation.
It can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected vaginal intercourse.
By delaying ovulation, the medication allows time for sperm from the episode of unprotected sex to become non-viable.
After taking this medication, it is recommended to wait 5 days before starting hormonal contraception, as hormones may reduce its effectiveness.
This option is not effective if ovulation has already occurred.
Levonorgestrel emergency contraception tablet
Levonorgestrel is another hormonal emergency contraception tablet that works by delaying ovulation.
It should ideally be taken within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected vaginal intercourse.
Evidence suggests it becomes less effective if taken later than this.
Like other hormonal emergency contraception methods, it does not work if ovulation has already taken place.
Need emergency contraception today?
If you think you may need emergency contraception, it is important to seek advice as soon as possible so that the most effective option can be offered.
At 2Me Clinic, we offer a free 10-minute phone consultation with one of our experienced female health doctors to discuss your situation and help you decide which option is most appropriate for you.
We also offer same-day appointments whenever possible, including consultations for emergency contraception tablets or copper coil insertion for emergency contraception.
You can book your free 10-minute chat through our fast online booking portal.
If you already know which option you would like, you can book your appointment directly online.
Need to speak to us?
Book a FREE 10-min chatFew important facts!
- EC and Weight Evidence suggests that the effectiveness of the Cu IUD is not affected by body weight or Body Mass Index (BMI). LNG-EC appears to be less effective in those with a BMI greater than 26 kg/m2 or weight greater than 70kg. UPA-EC may be less effective in those with a BMI of greater than 30 or weight greater than 85kg.
- EC and Illness If you vomit within 2 hours of taking your EC, a second dose will need to be given. There are other conditions that can potentially affect the absorption of the EC such as bowel and digestive problems. It is important that you speak to your local Pharmacist or Doctor if you have a medical condition and require EC.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding There is a small risk of expulsion of the Cu IUD at the time of insertion in the period just after delivery. There is also a small risk of perforating the uterus. Fortunately, these risks are low. For these reasons, insertion of a Cu IUD should be avoided between 48 hours and 28 days after delivery. The safety of UPA-EC during breastfeeding has not been studied, therefore, breastfeeding women should be advised not to breastfeed and to express and discard milk for a week after they have taken UPA-EC. Studies with LNG-EC report no harmful or adverse effects on the infant or on breastmilk production, therefore, women can continue to breastfeed after using LNG-EC.
FAQ
UPA-EC and LNG-EC can cause your next period to come early, or later. If your next period is delayed by over 2 weeks, speak to your doctor as you will need a pregnancy test to exclude a pregnancy.
The Cu IUD can cause irregular bleeding which can begin soon after insertion of the device. It can cause regular periods to become heavier and more painful. It is important to speak to a doctor immediately if you experience any changes in your bleeding pattern, pain, or abnormal discharge.
The effectiveness of UPA-EC and LNG-EC can be reduced by certain medicines. These include medication used in the treatment of epilepsy and tuberculosis, some antifungal medications, over-the-counter St John’s Wort, stomach acid suppressants such as esomeprazole, and some anti-retroviral medication.
It is important that you speak to your local Pharmacist or Doctor if you take any prescribed or over-the-counter medication.
The overall pregnancy rate following insertion of the Cu IUD has been reported to be about <0.1%, so less than one in a thousand.
Studies show that the overall pregnancy rate after administration of UPA has been reported to be about 1–2%. This means that out of 100 women who take UPA-EC after UPSI, about 1–2 will become pregnant. This risk is much higher if UPA-EC is taken closer to the time of ovulation.
Studies show that the overall pregnancy rate after administration of LNG-EC has been reported to be about 0.6-2.6%. This means that out of 100 women who take LNG-EC after UPSI, less than 1 to just over 2 women will become pregnant. This risk is much higher if UPA-EC is taken closer to the time of ovulation.
……. So, remember, it’s all about the timing of intercourse relative to ovulation.
The best time to take your EC or to have a Cu IUD fitted is immediately after the episode of unprotected penetrative vaginal sex.
The Cu IUD is the most effective method.
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