
The morning-after pill is a type of birth control that can be used in emergency situations.
The emergency contraceptive pill, often called the morning-after pill, is a form of backup birth control used to reduce the risk of pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. Despite its name, it does not need to be taken the next morning — it works best the sooner it is taken.
What Is the Emergency Pill?
Emergency contraception is designed for occasional use and is intended for situations such as:
- Condom breakage
- Missed birth control pills
- Unprotected intercourse
- Sexual activity where contraception was not used correctly
It prevents pregnancy mainly by delaying or preventing ovulation, depending on the type of pill used.
How Effective Is It?
The effectiveness of the emergency pill depends on how quickly it is taken and which type of pill is used. All emergency contraceptive pills are more reliable when taken as soon as possible following unprotected sex — ideally within the first 24 hours.
Below are the commonly used options:
1. Levonorgestrel-Based Pills (LNG)
These are the most widely available and are often sold over the counter.
- Should be taken within 72 hours (3 days)
- Most effective when taken within 24 hours
- Effectiveness:
- About 94% when taken in the first 24 hours
- Drops to around 58% by 72 hours
2. Ulipristal Acetate (UPA)
This option requires a prescription in many places and tends to be more effective than levonorgestrel.
- Can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days)
- Effectiveness:
- Up to 98% within the first 24 hours
- Roughly 85% when taken within 120 hours Because it must be prescribed, having a supply available beforehand ensures quicker access and better effectiveness.
3. Combined Birth Control Pills (Yuzpe Method)
Some regular birth control pills, taken in a specific higher dose, can serve as emergency contraception.
- This method is the least effective
- Causes more side effects (such as nausea)
Important Considerations
- Emergency contraception is not an abortion pill. It prevents pregnancy before it begins and does not affect an existing pregnancy.
- It should not be used as a regular form of birth control since it is less effective than routine contraceptive methods.
- It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- If vomiting occurs within a few hours of taking the pill, another dose may be needed.
- If your period is more than a week late, pregnancy testing is recommended.
Emergency Pill
Appointment Details
12:24

