Emergency contraception

Emergency contraception can be used if contraception was not used or if contraception fails (e.g. condom breaks or contraceptive pills missed).

There are two types of emergency contraception:

• Emergency contraceptive pills
• Copper IUDs (link to IUD page) If inserted up to 5 days after having unprotected sex, a copper IUD is very effective at preventing pregnancy.

Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs)

ECPs are sometimes called ‘the morning after pill’. ECPs should be used as soon as possible after sex and can be used up to 5 days after sex (depending on the type of ECP used).

ECPs work by delaying ovulation or stopping a fertilised egg from implanting in the uterus (stopping a pregnancy from starting).

If you take an ECP within 72 hours (3 days) after having sex, it is very effective. Some ECPs are effective up to 5 days after unprotected sex. It’s best to check with your doctor or pharmacist for which ECP is best for you.

You can get ECPs over the counter at a pharmacy. You do not need a prescription. The pharmacist ask questions to make sure they give you the right treatment. They should offer for you to move to a private area to answer these questions. They may ask you to write the answers down on a form.

ECPs are also available from some doctors and health services.

Things to consider

• Anyone can take ECPs if they need to, even if they are unable to take contraceptive pills on a long-term basis.
• ECPs can cause nausea and vomiting, and vaginal bleeding.
• It is important to have a check up 3 weeks after using emergency contraception to make sure it was successful in preventing a pregnancy.
• If ECPs were not successful in preventing a pregnancy and unusual pain or bleeding occurs, it is important to see a doctor to make sure there is no ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy that develops outside the uterus, usually in a Fallopian tube).

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This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.