Contraception 911
CONTRACEPTION 911
There are a variety of ways to prevent a pregnancy if there is a mishap. What do we mean by mishap? Let’s just say that contraception wasn’t used (in the heat of the moment) or there was a contraceptive “malfunction.”
Cut to Emergency Contraception (EC). Emergency Contraception prevents a pregnancy. It does not end a pregnancy. Emergency contraception is not an abortion pill or termination procedure. Rather, EC delays ovulation so that an egg is not released at the time of potential sperm exposure (and therefore prevents fertilization) or it creates an environment in the uterine cavity that prevents fertilization or implantation from occurring--quickly. Emergency contraception should not be used as a regular method of contraception, however in the instances noted below, one should consider it.
V. (five) reasons why you would need to use emergency contraception?
i. Your partner did not use a condom
ii. You/your partner did not use any other form of birth control
iii. You erred with your current birth control; forgot to take a pill(s), did not change your patch, failed to change your ring or missed a dose of your birth control shot
iv. Condom failure
v. Your partner did not pull out in time
Here are V. (five) types of emergency contraception that are available.
i. Progestin (levonorgestrel), Plan B or Next Choice
These should be taken within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex to maximize efficacy. They can be obtained without a prescription, and are available over the counter at your pharmacy.
ii Ulipristal acetate (Ella)
Can be taken within 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex to maximize efficacy. This method requires a prescription from your healthcare provider.
iii. Yuzpe method
This involves using regular birth control pills that contain both estrogen and progesterone. It is not as effective and may have side effects. This method should be done within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotective sex, and you should consult with your healthcare provider first.
iv. Copper IUD insertion
The copper IUD (Paragard) can be inserted by your doctor within 5 days of unprotected sex as a means of emergency contraception. It can then remain in place for up to 10 years to provide continued contraception.
v. Progestin IUD insertion
There is minimal data using the hormonal containing intrauterine devices for emergency contraception. This would be an off-label use of the product.
And, last but not least…
V. Emergency contraception questions answered.
i. If I am on “the pill” and I messed up my dosing, what would be the best method of emergency contraception for me to prevent a pregnancy?
In this case either Plan B or Paragard IUD insertion would be the best and safest option to prevent a pregnancy from occurring.
ii. How does emergency contraception work?
Sperm can live in your body for 3-5 days so if you were to ovulate within that time there would be the possibility of fertilization. The emergency contraceptive pills prevent ovulation. If you haven’t ovulated and had unprotected sex, then the emergency contraceptive pills could delay ovulation and therefore prevent the egg from being exposed to sperm and therefore prevent a pregnancy. If you have already ovulated, then these pills often don’t work in preventing a pregnancy. That is why it is best to take them as soon as you can after the unprotected episode. The copper IUD works because it makes the environment hostile to sperm as well as to implantation.
iii. Are emergency contraceptive choices 100% effective in preventing a pregnancy?
No method is 100% effective. If you don’t get your period within one week of when it is expected, then it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test. If it positive, then contact your healthcare provider to explore next steps and options.
iv. When should I contact my doctor?
It is always a good idea to contact your doctor if you have had unprotected sex and are concerned about pregnancy or STI exposure. Your provider can guide you with regard to emergency contraception options, help you choose the best ongoing birth control options for you and help you test and treat if there was an STI exposure.
v. If I use two types of emergency contraception are the odds better for me in preventing an unwanted pregnancy?
It is not necessary to use two types of emergency contraception. Taking more or extra can make you feel sick but won’t necessarily offer extra protection.
Verbena does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment and is not a medical provider. Discuss emergency contraceptions and options with your personal doctor.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or 911 immediately.