Emergency contraception

What it is

Emergency contraception is what is offered after unprotected intercourse. It works by preventing fertilization and implantation, and it does not abort a pregnancy which has already implanted.

How it is treated

Three methods are named, each with its own timing:

• Levonorgestrel, a high dose progestin only preparation, within 48-72 hours from exposure. It suppresses ovulation up to the beginning of the LH surge.
• The antiprogestin ulipristal acetate, from 72-120 hours, that is within 5 days of exposure. It suppresses ovulation up to the peak of the LH surge.
• The copper IUD, placed within 5 days of exposure. This is the most effective method, with a failure rate of 1 in 1000.

The COCP, the combined OCP, is also listed among the types. The timing itself is not given the same way everywhere: it appears as within 3-5 days of intercourse in one place, while another states that insertion of a copper IUD can be effective up to 7 days after unprotected sex. If the woman does not have her cycle 21 days after completing the contraception, do a pregnancy test.