Emergency Contraception
Emergency contraception reduces the chance of pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It is not a routine method of birth control, but it is an important backup option when something goes wrong.
Medicine used to treat Emergency Contraception
How quickly it needs to be taken
Timing is the most critical factor. The main option available in our women’s health range contains levonorgestrel, a hormone that delays or prevents ovulation. It works best within 72 hours of unprotected sex and loses effectiveness the longer you wait. Taking it within 24 hours gives the highest success rate.
Emergency contraception does not end an established pregnancy and will not work if ovulation has already occurred. It has no effect on a fertilised egg that has already implanted.
What to expect afterwards
Some people experience mild nausea, headache, or irregular spotting in the days after taking it. Your next period may arrive earlier or later than usual. If your period is more than a week late, take a pregnancy test.