Emergency Contraception

You May Have A Need For Emergency Contraception After Sex If...

You didn't use any birth control.
You had sex when you didn't expect to.
A condom broke or slipped off.
Your diaphragm slipped out of place.
You were forced to have sex.

There are different brands of emergency contraception available. Plan B One-Step and the generic, Next Choice, are available over-the-counter. Ella requires a prescription. Ella is more effective than Plan Be One-Step if needed 4-5 days after unprotected sex rather than immediately.

What is Emergency Contraception?
This is a method of preventing pregnancy when vaginal sex occurred at mid-cycle, adequate contraception was not used, and pregnancy is a good possibility. Formerly called the "morning after pill," this term is no longer applicable as it is recommended it be taken as soon after unprotected sex as possible. Emergency contraception delays ovulation and causes the uterine lining to be unsuitable for implantation of an egg, even if it is released and has been fertilized. It is NOT an "abortion pill". It is not to be relied upon for routine contraception. For most effectiveness, it should be used within 120 hours (5 days) after vaginal sex.

Effectiveness
Emergency contraceptive pills are about 89% effective when started within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse, and are slightly less effective on the 4th or 5th day. It is more effective the sooner it is taken.

Advantages
It is a relatively safe, simple, effective method of emergency contraception. It provides a contraceptive option for rape survivors.

Disadvantages
Nausea may occur. It does not protect against STIs (Sexually transmitted infections).

How To Access Emergency Contraception

Emergency Contraception is available over-the-counter to women and men aged 18 and over in the UHC Pharmacy. Personal identification showing proof of age is required. Emergency Contraception is available by prescription only for women 17 years and younger.

In order to prevent contraceptive failures in the future, the Women's Clinic is available for contraception counseling. Women who are sexually active should receive yearly pap smears and breast exams, as well as counseling regarding sexually transmitted infections, contraception, etc. Please call the Women's Clinic today at 706-542-8691 to schedule an appointment. For general information about sexual health, please contact Katy Janousek, Sexual Health Coordinator, Health Promotion Department (706-542-8690 or kjanousek@uhs.uga.edu).

Emergency Contraception is also available at other pharmacies. Call ahead to be sure it is available in the pharmacy you are visiting.

How To Use Emergency Contraception

Read and follow the instructions on the package insert, and contact your clinician if you have any questions.

Call the Health Center (706-542-8691) if you experience severe headache, blurred vision, chest pain, shortness of breath, leg pain, or any other unusual symptoms.

Please visit www.not-2-late.com for more information.