Unforeseen circumstances can frequently leave individuals seeking support, particularly in matters concerning emergency contraception. This includes navigating the landscape of available options, understanding where to buy them or what option may be suitable for one’s body. At Be Well, we understand these challenges. That’s why we’ve put together a comprehensive guide, illuminating the diverse range of options for those unexpected moments. Our goal is ensure you make informed choices by providing clarity on what’s available and empowering you to make decisions aligned with your individual needs.
What is emergency contraception?
Emergency contraception or more commonly known as the morning after pill, is a form of birth control that has been designed to use after unprotected intercourse or if a contraceptive fails. They are administered in a pill format or there is also the option of an intrauterine device or an IUD.
Intrauterine device (IUD)
What is it?
An intrauterine device or an IUD is an emergency contraception device that is made out of copper and is inserted into the uterus. It is a T-shaped appliance that is around an inch long. The copper alters the cervical mucus, a fluid that is produced by the cervix which ultimately, makes it more difficult for the sperm to reach an egg and survive. It can also stop a fertilised egg from being able to implant itself.
How is it inserted?
A copper IUD uses a speculum to widen your vagina and hold it open, then a special inserter is used to put the IUD in through the opening of the cervix and then into the uterus. This process takes around 5 minutes and may feel slightly uncomfortable.
When can you get inserted after unprotected sex?
An IUD can be fitted up 5 days after unprotected sex. It can also be inserted 5 days after the earliest time that you could have ovulated.
What are the advantages and disadvantages?
The IUD’s biggest advantage is that when it is inserted as a form of emergency contraception, it becomes a long lasting contraceptive. It can last anywhere between 5-10 years, depending on the brand of IUD. When it is inserted, you also don’t need to think about it until it’s time to be replaced meaning that is a low maintenance form of contraception. Some methods of contraception can affect fertility when removed or stopped, but when an IUD is removed, your fertility goes back to normal.
The disadvantages of an IUD is that is generally an uncomfortable experience having an IUD fitted. Some individuals also find the process painful, but a local anaesthetic can be administered if you speak to your doctor or nurse beforehand. It isn’t as quick of a process as taking an emergency pill, as you need to book an appointment beforehand and may have to wait. You can experience symptoms like cramps too after insertion which can be unpleasant.
Contraceptive Pill
What is it?
An emergency contraceptive pill is an oral medication that works to prevent pregnancy by stopping or delaying ovulation which is the release of an egg from the ovary. It may also prevent the fertilisation of the egg by the sperm if ovulation has already occurred.
What kinds of contraceptive pill are there?
For the contraceptive pill to work as efficiently as possible, it’s important that you try to access the pill as soon as you can. There are 2 types of contraceptive pills, these are:
Levonelle or Levonorgestrel
Levonorgestrel or more commonly known as Levonelle is a type of emergency contraceptive pill that is taken to prevent pregnancy. It has to be taken within 3 days (72 hours) of unprotected sex or when the usual method of contraception has failed. It is 95% effective when taken within 24 hours, 85% effective if taken within 25-48 hours or 58% effective when taken within 49-72 hours. Levonelle or Levonorgestrel contains a synthetic version of the hormone progesterone.
ellaOne
ellaOne is another kind of contraceptive pill that can be used after unprotected sex or if your regular contraception method has failed. It is 98% effective in preventing pregnancy and needs to be taken within 5 days (120 hours). ellaOne should be taken as soon as possible but the effectiveness of the medication doesn’t drop within each day of the 5 day period like it does with Levonelle.
Here at Be Well, we have both types of emergency contraceptive pills available. Begin the process by filling out our quick and easy consultation form below.