Sex Ed 102: Emergency Birth Control Methods

When it comes to contraception, planning ahead is always the best approach. But life doesn’t always go according to plan, and that's where emergency birth control comes in. Whether a condom breaks, birth control is missed, or unprotected sex occurs, emergency contraception provides a backup option to prevent pregnancy after intercourse. Understanding these methods and how they work empowers individuals to take control of their reproductive health, even in unexpected situations.

Emergency birth control is not meant to be a primary method of contraception, but it serves an important role in preventing unintended pregnancies. With a few options available, including emergency contraceptive pills and certain intrauterine devices (IUDs), individuals can choose the method that best suits their needs.

This page will guide you through the basics of different emergency contraception options, how they work, and their advantages and disadvantages so you can make an informed decision when it matters most. If you'd like to learn more about the specific emergency birth control methods, simply click on the images or links shared below.

What Is Emergency Birth Control?

Emergency birth control options are designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. They are a last-resort option for those who did not use protection, experienced a contraceptive mishap, or were unable to prevent pregnancy through other means. These methods must be used within a specific time frame to be effective.

How Does Emergency Birth Control Work?

Emergency contraception works by interfering with ovulation, fertilization, or implantation. Depending on the method used, it may delay or prevent the release of an egg, prevent sperm from fertilizing an egg, or alter the uterine lining to make implantation less likely.

It does not terminate an existing pregnancy but rather prevents one from occurring in the first place.

What Are the Various Emergency Birth Control Options?

  • Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECPs) – Also known as the “morning-after pill,” these include options like Plan B (levonorgestrel) and Ella (ulipristal acetate). They are most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex.
  • Copper IUD – A non-hormonal intrauterine device that, when inserted within five days of unprotected sex, can prevent pregnancy by creating a hostile environment for sperm and fertilization.
  • Higher-Dose Regular Birth Control Pills (Yuzpe Method) - Some combination birth control pills (containing both estrogen and progestin) can be taken in specific high doses as emergency contraception.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Emergency Birth Control Options

Emergency birth control options offer several advantages, but they also have some limitations that should be considered when choosing the right one for you.

Benefits:

  • Provides a Backup Option: Can help prevent pregnancy when primary contraception fails or is not used.
  • Readily Available: Many emergency contraceptive pills are available over the counter without a prescription.
  • Non-Permanent Solution: Allows individuals to maintain future fertility without long-term commitment to contraception.
  • Short-Term Hormonal Exposure: Unlike regular hormonal birth control, emergency contraceptive pills are only used as needed, reducing long-term hormonal exposure.

 

Disadvantages:

  • Time-Sensitive: Effectiveness decreases the longer you wait to use it after unprotected sex.
  • Potential Side Effects: Some individuals experience nausea, headaches, irregular bleeding, or temporary hormonal changes.
  • No Protection Against STIs: Emergency contraception prevents pregnancy but does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
  • Effectiveness May Vary by Body Weight : Some emergency contraceptive pills (like Plan B) may be less effective for individuals over a certain weight
  • Not as Effective as Regular Contraception – Emergency contraception is not a substitute for consistent birth control methods and should not be relied upon as a primary means of preventing pregnancy

 


Emergency Birth Control Options

(click the image or link to go directly to the page)

Beginners Guide: Plan B, Morning After PillPlan B Pill
(coming soon)

Copper IUD
(coming soon)

Beginners Guide: Emergency Birth Control Options, Yuzpe MethodYuzpe Method
(coming soon)

 
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