Emergency contraception is not something that is usually discussed. Often, people only ask or talk about it when it is needed. Emergency contraceptive pills are probably the go-to form of birth control.
But how do you use it?
When should it be taken?
And does it cause any side effects?
We answer all your questions on these pills in this article.
This article is part of a comprehensive set of articles on Contraceptive Pills.
What is the morning after pill?
Emergency contraceptive pills are also known as the ‘morning-after pill’. It is taken to prevent unwanted or unplanned pregnancies in women who, for whatever reasons, have had unprotected sexual intercourse.
However, it should not be used as a primary birth control method, but as a ‘backup contraception’. Emergency contraceptive pills should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex.
Emergency contraceptive pills are different from the ‘abortion pill’/Mifepristone/RU-486.
How does the emergency contraceptive pill work?
Emergency contraceptive pills contain either ulipristal acetate or levonorgestrel, both of which are hormones that work to delay or prevent ovulation, blocking fertilization or preventing implantation of a fertilized egg on the uterus.
However, the pills usually do not interrupt a pregnancy if implantation has already occurred.
When should I take emergency contraceptive pills?
You should take them if you are in any of these situations:
- You and your partner forgot to use a condom
- The condom broke during sex
- The condom came off during sex
- You made a mistake with your usual birth control. For example, forgot to take your oral contraception or change your patch/ring, or were unable to get your shot in time
- Your partner was not able to ‘pull out’ in time
- You were forced into having unprotected sex by anyone. This includes your husband or your boyfriend.
How to use emergency contraceptive pills- common questions
The emergency contraceptive pill should be consumed as soon as possible after unprotected sex.
How long do you take emergency contraceptive pills?
These pills can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after you have had unprotected sex. However, taking it as soon as possible will maximize its effectiveness.
How many emergency contraceptive pills should be taken?
The pills are usually available in 1 or 2-pill packages. The dose depends on the type of pill you are taking. As such, it is important to follow instructions given by a medical professional or the directions on the package.
Is one pill enough to stop pregnancy?
The dosage needed depends on the type of pill you are taking. Taking the correct dosage will maximize the pill’s effectiveness in stopping pregnancy. However, the pills may not work if:
- You are already pregnant
- You took the pill too late after unprotected sex
- You vomited less than 3 hours after taking them
- You are on certain medications. Let a medical professional know the medications you are on before taking the pill.
Side effects of emergency contraceptive pills
While there are no long-term side effects, consumption of the emergency contraceptive pill may cause temporary side effects such as:
- Stomach aches
- Headaches/dizziness
- Nausea and vomiting
- Breast tenderness
- Irregular bleeding
- Changes to your next period
Speak to a medical professional if the symptoms above do not go away, of if you:
- Vomit within 2 to 3 hours of taking the pill, as you might need another dose
- You suspect you are pregnant
- Your period is more than 7 days late
- Your period is much shorter or lighter than normal
- You experience sudden pain in the lower abdominal area
Side effects of emergency contraceptive pills on periods
Your first period after consuming the morning after pill can be either later or earlier than you expect it to be. It can also be lighter or darker than your usual color.
Your menstrual cycle should return to normal the following month if you’re not pregnant. However, if you often use emergency contraceptive pills, there is a chance that your menstrual cycles become unpredictable and irregular.
Where to get emergency contraceptive pills in Singapore?
You can get emergency contraceptive pills from pharmacies or from a medical professional.
You can also purchase them online from Ova, a direct telemedicine provider listed by Singapore’s Ministry of Health, who will deliver your emergency contraception within 4 hours on the same day. You will also be able to speak to Ova’s team of medical professionals if you have any queries.
Conclusion
Do not hesitate to contact your healthcare provider if you are in need of emergency contraceptives.
Do this as soon as possible so that you can maximize its effect. While the morning after pill can help you to avoid pregnancy after unprotected sex, do remember that it should not be used as your regular birth control method.