You are voluntarily choosing to use Emergency Contraception to prevent an unintended pregnancy following unprotected intercourse. Emergency contraception may be pills (ECP) or insertion of a copper-bearing IUD. This method should be started as soon as possible and within 120 hours (5 days) after intercourse. ECPs are 74 percent to 89 percent effective when used correctly. There are two types of ECPs available in the US, a single 30 mg ulipristal acetate (UPA) pill, or Ella, and Plan B One-Step or its generic forms (My Way, Take Action, EContra One-Step, and Aftera) which contain a single 1.5 mg levonorgestrel (LNG) pill. Plan B is also available over-the-counter Ella has shown a higher effectiveness rating than Plan B. Plan B is most effective when taken within the first 3 days of unprotected intercourse but can provide some protection up to 5 days after.
You may experience the following side effects:
- Nausea, stomach pain
- Headaches, dizziness
- Breast tenderness
- Menstrual cycle changes
You have been instructed to consider other methods of contraception for use. Some contraceptive methods can be started immediately after taking certain types of ECP. You have received information on other methods of birth control.
You have been offered a fact sheet on ECPs, along with instructions about how to take them. No guarantee has been made as to the results of using this method. Certain anti-seizure medications may affect how well your ECP works.
Emergency contraception does not protect you against STIs (sexually transmitted infections) and HIV.
Complications of ECPs are rare. If you experience complications, you must seek emergency health care.
The ECPs are to be taken after unprotected intercourse to prevent pregnancy. They are to be used as an emergency measure and are not recommended as a routine method of birth control. The Copper IUD may be used as emergency contraception or as a routine method of birth control.
You may ask questions about ECPs at any time and may contact the clinic with further questions.