What is the morning-after pill? How is the morning-after pill used?

The morning-after Pill, also known as emergency contraception, is a type of birth control that can be used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It is intended to be used as a backup method and should not be used as a regular form of contraception.

There are two types of morning-after pills available: levonorgestrel and ulipristal acetate. Levonorgestrel is available over-the-counter without a prescription, while ulipristal acetate requires a prescription from a healthcare provider.

Levonorgestrel, commonly known as Plan B One-Step or Next Choice, is a progestin hormone that works by preventing or delaying ovulation. It may also interfere with fertilization or implantation of a fertilized egg. It is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, but can be taken up to 72 hours (3 days) after intercourse.

Ulipristal acetate, sold under the brand name Ella, is a selective progesterone receptor modulator. It works by delaying ovulation and inhibiting the fertilization of an egg. It is more effective than levonorgestrel and can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex.

To use the morning-after pill, one should follow the instructions provided with the specific medication. Levonorgestrel pills usually come in a single dose, while ulipristal acetate pills may require two doses taken 12 hours apart. It is important to read and understand the instructions carefully.

If a person has unprotected sex or experiences contraceptive failure, they should obtain the morning-after pill as soon as possible. It is available at most pharmacies and can be purchased without a prescription for levonorgestrel. For ulipristal acetate, a prescription from a healthcare provider is required.

When taking the morning-after pill, it is important to remember that it is not 100% effective in preventing pregnancy. The effectiveness varies depending on how soon it is taken after unprotected sex. Levonorgestrel is estimated to reduce the risk of pregnancy by 75-89%, while ulipristal acetate is estimated to reduce the risk by 85%.

It is also important to note that the morning-after pill does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If there is a risk of STIs, it is advisable to use barrier methods such as condoms in addition to emergency contraception.

Some common side effects of the morning-after pill may include nausea, vomiting, fatigue, headache, breast tenderness, and irregular bleeding. These side effects are usually mild and temporary. If severe or persistent side effects occur, it is recommended to seek medical advice.

It is important to remember that the morning-after pill should not be used as a regular form of contraception. It is intended for emergency situations only. If a person frequently finds themselves needing emergency contraception, they should consider using a more reliable and consistent method of birth control, such as hormonal contraceptives or long-acting reversible contraceptives.

In conclusion, the morning-after pill is a form of emergency contraception that can be used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It is available in two types: levonorgestrel and ulipristal acetate. It is important to follow the instructions provided with the specific medication and to obtain it as soon as possible after unprotected sex. However, it is not 100% effective and does not protect against STIs. It should not be used as a regular form of contraception.