Morning-After Pill: Emergency Contraception & Side Effects

Introduction

Emergency contraception is taken when there has been a failed birth control method or when there isn’t one used. There are two types of emergency contraception, and this blog will educate the readers on the morning-after pill, how it’s taken, when to take it, its effects and side effects. Even though it’s an over-the-counter pill, it is better to consult a doctor on which method will be most effective for the individual. And even when used correctly, there is no guarantee that this is a hundred percent effective. It also doesn’t provide any protection against sexually transmitted diseases and already existing pregnancies.  

What is Emergency Contraception and its types?

Emergency contraception is used to avoid pregnancy after unprotected sex or a failed birth control method like missing birth preventive shots or tablets or in case of a damaged condom or non-consensual sex. They are used as a last resort and not as primary birth control. It is most effective when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. There are two types of emergency contraception,

• The emergency contraceptive pill 
• The intrauterine device (IUD or coil)

While the emergency contraceptive pill is available over the counter and without a prescription, an intrauterine device, commonly known as an IUD, has to be placed by a physician after testing the individual. IUD is used as a primary method of birth control as well. But when the IUD is fitted within five days of a failed birth control method, it also acts as an emergency contraception. While emergency contraception methods can prevent pregnancy, they cannot terminate an already existing pregnancy. 

About Morning-After Pill 

As the name suggests, the Morning-After pill is taken as soon as one gets to know that the primary birth control failed. It is as much better as early as it is taken after a failed birth control method. The morning-after pill is of three types, 

Hormone-based emergency contraception pills

Levonorgestrel is the most commonly used emergency contraceptive. It is also used in hormone therapy. Levonorgestrel is a man-made (synthetic) hormone that resembles the natural hormone in females called progestin, a form of progesterone produced by the ovaries. It alters the lining of the uterine wall to prevent the development of a fetus. Levonorgestrel also halts the ovary from releasing an egg or stops the fertilisation of an egg by sperm, but it does not affect the already existing pregnancy. It should be taken within three days of unprotected intercourse and preferably within twelve hours. This doesn’t intervene with the regular contraception methods.

Side effects of levonorgestrel are :

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Abdominal pain
• Slight spotting
• Tiredness
• Headache
• Diarrhea 
• Dizziness 

If the side effects persist, it is better to consult a physician.  

Ulipristal acetate

Ulipristal delays ovulation, and if the egg has already been released, it thins the lining of the endometrial wall, making it difficult for the sperm to get fertilised with the egg. Ulipristal binds to the progesterone receptor and blocks it from creating a surge in luteinising hormone, which occurs before ovulation. It does not have any effect on an already existing pregnancy. The body rapidly absorbs Ulipristal and takes it in a single tablet. A second one is only needed in case of Vomiting within three hours of tablet consumption. Ulipristal can be taken within five days of unprotected sex or in case of a failed primary birth control method. Ulipristal is only available by prescription from a doctor.

The side effects of Ulipristal include,

• Headache
• Abdominal pain
• Nausea
• Tiredness
• Dizziness
• Painful menstruation 

If the symptoms persist for more than three days, it is advised to consult with a doctor.

 Who should avoid the Morning-After Pill?

• The following are some of the scenarios where Morning-After pill should be avoided:
• Some people might be allergic to the components in the Morning-After pill; they should consult a doctor before using these pills or use an alternative.
• Individuals who are obese or overweight will not have the same efficiency as people with proper BMI. The Morning-After pill might not work for some as well.
• It is better to make sure that the individual is not pregnant before taking the Morning-After pill. This is due to two reasons: the tablet will not affect the preexisting pregnancy, and the effect on the developing baby is unknown. 
• Breastfeeding moms are not advised to take the Morning-After pill as it might enter the baby’s system through breast milk. This might cause the baby to become sick.
• If one has abnormal bleeding from the vagina, they should avoid the use of this pill.
• People with Liver disease and breast cancer should refrain from taking the pills.
• Women taking anti-HIV drugs, antibiotics, anticonvulsants, and a few other drugs shouldn’t mix the Morning-After pill with them. Hence, it is better to talk to a physician before taking them.

Conclusion

Morning-after pills should be used as a last resort in emergencies and not as a birth control method. It doesn’t prevent sexually transmitted diseases and already existing pregnancies. It is an over-the-counter medication and, in most cases, safe to use. However, some complications can occur due to the individual’s allergies, weight, or pregnancy status; in such cases, it is better to consult with a doctor and get the recommended medication according to the individual. 

FAQ’s