The emergency contraceptive pill has been available in pharmacies for the last 40 years, helping people avoid unwanted pregnancies after having unprotected sex. Yet, many people still do not know everything about hormonal contraception.
To find out how it works and how to use it, read on:
What is the emergency contraceptive pill?
The emergency contraceptive pill is available in two brands, Levonelle or ellaOne.
Levonelle works as it contains a manmade version of the hormone progesterone, which is called levonorgestrel.
As progesterone is released during the beginning stages of pregnancy, levonorgestrel convinces the body it does not need to produce an egg. This delay of ovulation means an egg cannot be fertilised.
This form of contraceptive is best to take within 72 hours of having unprotected sex, whether the patient did not use protection, missed their pill, was sick after taking the pill, or their condom broke.
Even the most careful couples may need to take the ‘morning after pill’, if they are worried their usual contraception is no longer effective and they want to protect against a pregnancy.
EllaOne works differently from Levonelle, as it contains ulipristal acetate. This stops progesterone from working, and prevents or delays the release of an egg.
This contraceptive pill is better for those who have not managed to get to their local pharmacy as soon as possible after sex, as it is still effective within 120 hours of intercourse.
With both, the effectiveness of the drug declines the longer the patient waits to take it. Therefore, it is advisable to have emergency contraception as soon after sex as possible.
Can anyone take emergency hormonal contraceptives?
The good news is that most women are fine to take emergency hormonal contraceptives, and it is even available for girls under the age of 16 from contraception and sexual health clinics.
Even those who have trouble with regular hormonal contraception are able to take ellaOne or Levonelle, though it is sensible to speak to your pharmacist first.
It is also worth noting that women who have severe asthma or allergies to any of the ingredients may not be able to have these drugs.
Those who are on St John’s Wort, medication for epilepsy, HIV or tuberculosis, omeprazole, and some antibiotics will not be able to take ellaOne. However, they may be able to take Levonelle, but at a higher dose.
Women who are breastfeeding are also able to take Levonelle, as it is not harmful to the baby. On the other hand, there has not been enough research done on the effects of ellaOne on breastmilk, which is why it is advisable not to breastfeed for one week to be on the safe side.
What are the side effects?
Like all drugs, there are likely to be side effects when taking emergency hormonal contraceptives.
They are both known to cause headaches, abdominal pain, and nausea. They might also affect your next period, such as disrupting the cycle or making it heavier or more painful than it typically is.
Women who are physically sick within two hours after taking the pills should ask their pharmacist for advice, as they will need to take another dose.