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| Emergency Contraception [Printer-Friendly Format]
EC is often chosen by women who have been sexually assaulted as a way to reduce the risk of pregnancy. We strongly encourage victims of assault to talk with a clinician about preventive treatment of sexually transmitted infections and options available for counseling and other support. How EC works When used as emergency contraception, synthetic hormones disrupt the natural hormone patterns necessary for pregnancy. They work similarly to other hormonal methods of contraception by primarily preventing or delaying ovulation and also by preventing fertilization of an egg or by preventing implantation of a fertilized egg. Emergency contraceptive pills will not work if already pregnant, nor do they harm an already established pregnancy or cause an abortion. How to use EC EC should be used as soon as possible within 120 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse. To prevent nausea, eat a snack such as a sandwich and milk, yogurt, or a regular meal before taking the pills. Because EC is much more effective if used within the first 24 hours, consider purchasing EC to have on hand before it is actually needed. Progestin-only pills (Plan B): Progestin-only pills (Plan B) may be swallowed as one dose of two pills. Plan B is generally well-tolerated and produces no side effects except for mild nausea in some women. Plan B is currently available without a prescription at many, but not all, pharmacies. Combination oral contraceptives: Multiple doses of birth control pills containing estrogen and levonorgestrel (synthetic progestin) can be prescribed as EC. These pills are swallowed as two doses taken exactly 12 hours apart and, while effective, may have more side effects, such as:
These symptoms generally taper off and resolve within 24 to 48 hours after the second dose of medication. Warning signs associated with estrogen-containing EC Although estrogen-containing EC is safe for most women, they hormone medications can increase the risk of blood clots. See a clinician immediately if any of the following symptoms develop:
EC and the menstrual cycle The next period may be earlier or later than usual and the flow may be heavier, lighter, or spottier. EC substantially reduces the risk of pregnancy but it is not 100% effective. If a period does not start within three weeks after taking the pills, a pregnancy test is recommended. Urine pregnancy testing is available at UHS during regular clinic hours, without an appointment. After taking EC EC does not reduce the risk of pregnancy for any future episodes of intercourse. It can be safely taken in the future should another episode of unprotected intercourse occur. Although prescriptions are no longer necessary to obtain EC, an appointment is generally recommended to discuss birth control options and to screen for sexually transmitted infections. EC does not protect against sexually transmitted infections. To protect against HIV, other sexually transmitted diseases, and pregnancy, use condoms with every sexual encounter. Use condoms, spermicide, or other methods of contraception consistently to protect against pregnancy. If interested in starting a prescription method of birth control, discuss the options with a clinician. It may be possible to start a hormonal method, such as birth control pills, skin patch, or vaginal ring, immediately after taking EC. Other resources: For more information on emergency contraception that includes a listing of birth control pills that can be used as EC, visit ec.princeton.edu or call the Emergency Contraception Hotline toll-free at 1-888-NOT-2-LATE. [HU 466 : updated 03/09] top of page | story updated 4/14/09 | |  Plasma Donation/Apheresis (Red Cross) UHS Immunization and Health History Form UHS Sexual Assault and Relationship Violence Information | |||
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