Emergency contraception (EC) is a form of a pill that can be taken within 120 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. It works mainly by stopping ovulation or fertilisation, so there is no chance of pregnancy. The EC pill is a combination of two hormones, which are like natural versions of progesterone and oestrogen. These help stop ovulation and prevent the implantation of a fertilised egg in your womb. The sooner you take the EC pill after having sex, the more likely it is to work. In some cases, EC can also be used up to five days after having unprotected sex with someone who has not already been pregnant. Keep reading to find out where to get emergency contraception if you had unprotected sex at our pharmacy in West Croydon.

Is emergency contraception safe?

Emergency contraception does not cause an abortion, but it does not protect against STIs or other infections that might be passed on during sex.

EC is safe, effective and quick to take. You only need to take a tablet as soon as possible after having sex. You do not have to use birth control methods in addition to EC if you’re already pregnant – it’s only meant for preventing pregnancy in those situations where there has been no protection used at all (or any other method failed).

What are the side effects of emergency contraception?

The EC pill is a combination of two hormones, which are like natural versions of progesterone and estrogen. Progesterone is a hormone that helps to maintain the lining of the uterus, while oestrogen affects female characteristics such as breast development. Oestrogen alone can cause side effects like headaches or nausea, which are not common with progestogen-only pills (POPs).

EC pills contain levonorgestrel (a derivative of progesterone) along with desogestrel (another derivative), also known as the oral contraceptive pill, intrauterine device or IUD intrauterine contraceptive device.

Common side effects include:

– Nausea or vomiting.
– Lower abdominal pain or cramps.
– Dizziness.
– Fatigue.
– Breast tenderness.
– Headache.
– Heavier menstrual bleeding or bleeding between periods.

 

When should I take emergency contraception after unprotected sex?

You must take the emergency contraception pill within 3 days (for Levonelle) or 5 days (for ellaOne) following unprotected sex for it to be effective; the sooner you take it, the higher the success rate.

The EC pill contains a hormone called levonorgestrel (a second-generation progestin) and works by preventing the release of an egg from the ovary. This prevents pregnancy from taking place, but only if you have not already ovulated or implanted a fertilised egg in your womb.

What is unprotected sex?

In unprotected sex, individuals engage in sexual activity without using methods to prevent pregnancy or the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STI). This includes situations where either no contraception is used or the methods used, such as a condom, fail. Unprotected sex can lead to unintended pregnancy and the spread of STIs, so it is important to take steps to protect oneself and one’s partner during sexual activity.

How can I protect myself from unwanted pregnancy?

There are several ways to protect yourself from unwanted pregnancy:

Use contraception

There are various forms of contraception available, such as pills, condoms, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and injections. You should choose the method that works best for you and your lifestyle.

Practice safe sex

Use condoms to protect against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STI).

Limit your number of sexual partners

The more partners you have, the higher your risk of pregnancy and STI.

Consider long-acting reversible contraception (LARC)

LARC methods, such as IUDs and implants, are highly effective in preventing pregnancy and do not require daily attention.

It’s important to talk to a doctor or your pharmacist about the best options for you and to use contraception consistently and correctly to effectively prevent pregnancy.

How can I avoid getting an STI?

There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of getting a sexually transmitted infection (STI):

Practice safe sex

Use condoms or dental dams every time you have sexual contact to reduce the risk of STI transmission.

Limit your number of sexual partners

The fewer partners you have, the lower your risk of getting an STI.

Regularly undergo testing

Regular STI testing is important, especially if you have a new partner or multiple partners.

Vaccinate yourself

Some STI, such as HPV and hepatitis B, can be prevented through vaccination.

Avoid sharing personal items

Do not share razors, toothbrushes, or other personal items that may have come into contact with bodily fluids.

Avoid substance abuse

Substance abuse can impair your judgment and increase your risk of engaging in risky sexual behaviour.

Where can I get emergency contraception after unprotected sex in West Croydon?

Visit Shivas Pharmacy today to get your emergency contraception after unprotected sex in West Croydon. We’ve also written another article on the morning after pill and other sexual health issues, click here to read it now.

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This blog post was written on behalf of Shivas Pharmacy by Pharmacy Mentor.