Emergency contraception, commonly called the morning-after pill or day after pill, is a high dosage of synthetic hormone. The way emergency contraception works varies based on when it is used within your cycle. Its use can end a pregnancy prior to or shortly after implantation.  Emergency contraception is not always effective in preventing a pregnancy. 

The morning-after pill is not a form of regular birth control, and the manufacturers advise that it is not intended to be taken on a regular basis. It does not offer lasting protection for any subsequent sexual encounters. 

Women most commonly seek emergency contraceptives when they fear pregnancy, such as when:

• A contraceptive method was desired but not used.
• A contraceptive failure—a condom broke, diaphragm or cervical cap breakage, or a barrier contraceptive slippage.
• Birth control pills, patches, rings, or injections are started late or dislodged.
• Failed withdrawal.
• Expulsion of an IUD or implant.
• Sexual assault; forced sexual intercourse.

Hormonal emergency contraception works to thin the lining of the uterus and sometimes prevent ovulation. During the time of your cycle when you can conceive, it often fails to act as a contraceptive & acts instead as an abortifacient. 

High doses of synthetic hormones may carry health risks. If you have any existing health conditions, be sure to discuss these with your doctor before you buy or take emergency contraception. Side effects of hormonal emergency contraception, which typically last a few days, can include headache, nausea/vomiting, dizziness, fatigue, breast tenderness, changes in menstrual bleeding, and abdominal pain.

If you have noticed any unexpected side effects, such as heavy bleeding, seek medical attention right away.

If you weigh more than 155 lbs, certain types of emergency contraception may not lower your chances of getting pregnant. 

Contact us today to talk to someone about your concerns. 

Emergency contraception does not protect against HIV infection (AIDS) and other sexually transmitted diseases.

These products are not the same as RU-486, which is the abortion pill. 

If you’ve already taken emergency contraception, do not be alarmed if your period is late or not a normal period for you. Because the lining of the uterus has been temporarily thinned by this drug, sometimes a period is missed or is different.  Also, some women may have spotting or bleeding before their next period. Contact us today if you need a free pregnancy test.

After using emergency contraception there is still a chance that a pregnancy could occur. If you have not had a period within three weeks of using emergency contraception, contact us. We are here to help you regardless of your situation.