The cheapest emergency contraceptive pills. Emergency contraception: rules of administration and safety. Are emergency contraceptive pills safe?
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This article examines the issue of emergency contraception. She is also called "firefighter" or radical. What types and methods exist, how to use them, pros and cons, as well as cases when it is worth using emergency contraception.
Emergency contraception is used if:
- happened unprotected sexual intercourse, you did not use protection at all
- your usual method of contraception Not worked, for example, the condom broke
- You forgot take a birth control pill
Emergency contraception drugs are called “firefighters” because they are used in exceptional cases. An analogy can be made with calling an ambulance.
We'll talk about two types radical contraception:
- tablet (they are also called “The Morning After Pill” or the morning after pill)
- intrauterine device
The most important information can be gleaned from tables below. Further in the text, each of the points in the table is discussed in more detail:
What is this | Progesterone hormone, take the tablet no later than 72 hours. In the case of Postinor - two tablets. . | Ulipristal Acetate. Can be taken no later than 120 hours. | T-shaped device made of plastic and copper. . |
Who can use | There are practically no contraindications. . | Minimal contraindications, but... | Almost any woman. . |
Side effects | Headache, nausea, stomach pain, fatigue, vomiting, etc. | Pain in the lower back, stomach, mood swings, etc. | More painful and heavy periods. . |
How will it affect your next menstruation? | The next menstruation will come either late or early. . | Usually on time, but sometimes... | Must come. |
Should I go to the doctor? | Go if | in which cases it is necessary to consult a doctor. | In some cases - yes. |
Could the method not work? | In rare cases, emergency contraception does not work. | The method won't work | One of the most reliable methods. Read |
Can I continue to use my birth control pills? | How to continue using your regular birth control after emergency contraception. | How to return to regular contraception? | Can be used as |
What you need to know about emergency contraception
- You need to remember the golden rule: than earlier If you take the pill, you will have a better chance of getting pregnant less.
- The intrauterine device is considered more efficient tablets. According to statistics, less than 1% of women became pregnant after using the IUD. The statistics for tablets are much worse.
- Side effects phenomena of emergency contraceptive pills: nausea, increased fatigue and excitability, dizziness, pain in the mammary glands and lower abdomen.
- Your menstrual cycle will be unstable.
- If within 2 hours after taking the pill you vomit, you should take another pill because the effect of the first one may wear off and your chance of getting pregnant will increase.
- The intrauterine device can be yours regular method of contraception, and not just emergency.
- It is worth knowing that frequent use of an intrauterine device will lead to longer, heavier and more painful periods.
- The process of inserting the IUD may be slightly painful, so you can take a painkiller tablet.
- Despite the presence of side effects from the use of “fire” contraception, this method is considered more “beneficial” and humane for health than any other type. abortion.
- If you have calculated your “safe” days, and unprotected sexual intercourse occurred precisely on these days, with a small degree of risk, you can not take the pills. Since emergency contraception methods are a strong blow to a woman’s body.
Tablets Postinor, Escapelle, Levonel
These tablets contain an artificial analogue of the hormone progesterone.
When the hormone progesterone is found in natural quantities, it prepares the uterus to receive a fertilized egg, that is, it plays a direct role in the onset of pregnancy.
An increased level of this hormone in a woman’s body changes the structure of the uterine mucosa and changes the course of follicle maturation. The pregnancy process is blocked. The hormone interferes with the process ovulation(release of the egg).
And even if ovulation has occurred, the uterine lining changes so much that a fertilized egg cannot attach to its wall.
How to use
Postinor, Escapelle, Levonel should be taken no later than 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse.
That is, for example, if sexual intercourse occurred at 10 pm on May 10, then the pills (Postinor, Escapelle, Levonel) must be taken strictly before 12 noon on May 14.
In the case of Escapelle and Levonel, it is enough to take one tablet.
In the case of Postinor, first one tablet is taken, then after 12 (not later than 16) hours the second one is taken.
Contraindications for use
The drugs Postinor, Escapelle, Levonel have practically no contraindications, except for individual intolerance.
We recommend that you see your doctor before taking any of the above tablets. Your doctor can advise you on the tablets that are right for you and the recommended dosage. These tablets can already be used for 21 the day after childbirth and after miscarriages and abortions.
Side effects
There are virtually no mid- or long-term side effects from taking emergency contraceptive pills.
- Some women feel nausea, fatigue or, conversely, increased excitability, headache, pain in the lower abdomen and mammary glands.
- A small percentage experience vomiting.
In this case, the effect of the tablet may decrease, so it is better to take another one.
- Your menstrual cycle will be disrupted, but then it will recover again.
All of these side effects usually go away within a few days.
How will it affect your next menstruation?
After taking radical contraceptive pills, your period may come either earlier or later than expected.
Sometimes you may experience some bleeding between periods.
Do I need to go to the doctor?
You need to see a doctor if:
- you are more than 7 days late
- your next period is shorter and less heavy than usual
- you are experiencing pain in the lower abdomen
- these could be signs of an ectopic pregnancy (this is a very rare case, but you need to take action as quickly as possible)
- you are concerned that you may have contracted a sexually transmitted disease
Is it possible to get pregnant after Postinor, Escapel, Levonel?
Some women still get pregnant, even if they took the pills as directed.
These are quite rare cases. If you decide to keep your child, his health will not be at risk after taking the pills.
Basically, pregnancy occurs if:
- the pills were taken 72 hours after unprotected intercourse
- if vomiting occurs within 2 hours after taking the pills
There are rough statistics showing that emergency contraceptive pills prevented:
- 95% of pregnancies when taken within 24 hours of unprotected sex;
- 85% of pregnancies when taken within 25-48 hours;
- 58% of pregnancies when delivered within 49-72 hours
“Firefighter” contraceptive pills take about 2 hours to be completely absorbed in a woman’s body. Vomiting after 3 hours will not affect the contraceptive effect of the pills.
It is better to be observed by a doctor during the entire process. In this case, your doctor will be able to recommend an additional method of contraception.
Emergency contraception together with regular contraception
After taking Postinor, Escapel, Levonel for 12 hours, use your regular contraceptive:
- have a drink contraceptive tablet
- vaginal ring
- contraceptive patch
In addition, for several days you need to use an additional means of contraception - a condom:
- during 7 days if you use patch, ring or combination tablets
- during 2 days if yours contraceptives tablets are based on the hormone progesterone
If you are breastfeeding, taking emergency contraceptive pills is safe for your baby's health.
ellaOne tablets (ellaOn)
Recently, the drug ellaOne appeared on the market, which can be taken within 120 hours after unprotected intercourse (that's 5 days).
ellaOne tablets contain Ulipristal Acetate.
The principle of operation of all oral contraceptives is to delay or prevent ovulation, the release of a mature egg, which, when it meets a sperm, will lead to pregnancy.
Who can accept
Almost all women can take ellaOne tablets. Among the contraindications:
- asthma
- liver disease
- pregnancy
You should also refrain from breastfeeding for one week.
Side effects
They are the same as with other emergency contraceptive pills.
Within a few days after taking the pill you may feel:
- pain in the lower back or lower abdomen
- more painful periods
- frequent mood changes
Do you need a doctor?
Be sure to consult a doctor if:
- there was a delay in menstruation by more than 7 days
- periods are not as heavy as usual
- they are accompanied by pain, which was not there before
- you want to make sure you haven't contracted any sexually transmitted diseases
Could ellaOne not work?
In rare cases, as with other radical contraceptive pills, ellaOne may not work and pregnancy will occur.
In this case, you will need to consult a doctor.
The contraceptive effect of ellaOne may be reduced if you vomit within 3 hours of taking the pill. Contact your doctor immediately (he may advise you to take another pill, or use by another means emergency contraception).
If you vomit after 3.5 hours or more, the contraceptive properties of the pill are completely preserved.
There is a general rule for taking all medications: don’t delay. The sooner you take the pill, the greater the chance that its contraceptive properties will work 100%.
ellaOne and contraception
If you have missed taking your regular contraceptives, within 12 hours of taking ellaOne tablet you should:
- take your regular contraceptive tablet or
- insert vaginal ring
- use contraception bandage
You will definitely need to use an additional contraceptive - a condom:
- for 14 days if you are using the ring, patch, and combined birth control pills
- within 9 days if you are using hormonal birth control
Effect on next menstruation
As a rule, they arrive on time. But there are times when the cycle is disrupted for several days.
Intrauterine (contraceptive) device
This emergency contraception can be used for 5 days after unprotected sex or during 5 days after ovulation. The spiral will not allow the egg to be fertilized and settle in the uterus.
It is important to know that after unprotected sexual intercourse, you need to get tested for sexually transmitted diseases, because no method will protect you from these diseases.
The intrauterine (contraceptive) device can be used both as a means of contraception and as a regular contraceptive means.
Is it a spiral?
The intrauterine device, or contraceptive device, is made of plastic and copper and is T-shaped. It is inserted into the vagina.
After unprotected sexual intercourse, it can easily be used as a method of emergency contraception. The main thing is to introduce it within 5 days after unprotected sex.
The introduction of the spiral lasts about 15-20 minutes.
Pain may occur during insertion. In this case, ask your doctor to give you pain medication.
Who is the spiral suitable for?
Suitable for almost all women, but there are a number of contraindications.
The contraceptive device can be used even after miscarriages and abortions.
Before installation, it is better to consult a doctor, perhaps if you have an infection, you need to take antibiotics.
Side effects
For a few days after installation, you may experience discomfort in your lower abdomen (similar to a painful period).
In this case, you need to take painkillers.
There is a small chance that within 20 days After installation you will catch some kind of infection.
The coil may sometimes move or fall out. In this case, you need to consult a doctor and put it in place.
How will the IUD affect my next period?
Your period may become heavier and more painful, but it usually comes on time.
How often should you go to the doctor?
After the spiral is installed, it is advisable to go to the doctor through 3-4 weeks, to:
- make sure you are not pregnant
- make sure the IUD is seated correctly (if you want to continue using the IUD as a regular contraceptive)
- remove the IUD (if your goal was only emergency contraception)
When is the coil usually removed?
If you use it only as a “fire” contraception, you can remove it during your next period.
How reliable is the spiral?
The intrauterine device is one of the most reliable means of both regular and emergency contraception.
IN 99 % case, it protects against unwanted pregnancy.
Periodically feel the tendrils from the spiral in the vagina. If you do not feel them, there is a possibility that the device has moved and its contraceptive properties have weakened.
You should not feel the presence of a spiral in your body. If for any reason you feel it, consult your doctor. And use an additional means of contraception, for example, a condom, until you figure out the problem.
The IUD and other methods of contraception
As already mentioned, the intrauterine device is itself one of contraceptive methods, in addition to emergency.
If your regular method of contraception is contraceptives tablets, after the spiral is removed, you can continue to take them.
How much will emergency contraception cost you?
Emergency contraception is not cheap.
Postinor, for example, is the cheapest of all means - about 300 rubles.
Escapelle, Levonel are a little more expensive (about 350 rubles).
The drug ellaOne is already 10 times more expensive ( 3390 rubles), because it is more gentle, modern and can be used within 5 days after unprotected sex.
Intrauterine device can be used as a regular means of contraception for a long time, so its cost does not fall below 3500 rubles and comes to 7000 rubles.
From the article you learned about all the methods of emergency (fire, radical) contraception: pills and intrauterine device. Your doctor will tell you which remedy is right for you.
1 476 0Hello! From this article you will learn about what emergency contraception is, how it works, in what cases and how to use it correctly, what methods there are, what consequences this method may have.
Emergency contraception: what is it and when is it used?
Purpose of emergency contraception (EC) consists of protection from pregnancy in “emergency situations” after unprotected traditional sex in the first three days. Abuse of medicinal post-coital remedies causes significant harm to women's health, so they are not intended for regular use.
The essence of the protection of EC drugs is the inhibition of ovulation, and in the case of fertilization of the egg, the impossibility of its consolidation and development.
How does emergency contraception work?
First, on their way, sperm meet an obstacle in the form of thick cervical mucus located at the cervix. The acid-base balance of the vaginal environment changes in an unfavorable direction. Alkaline pH reduces the activity of seminal fluid.
The main effect of EC is to inhibit the development and release of the egg by the hormonal components contained in the preparations. If fertilization does occur, then the changed endometrium will not allow the egg to attach to the inner lining of the uterus.
The intrauterine device, which acts as an EC after sexual intercourse without protection from possible pregnancy, has a toxic, detrimental effect on sperm due to its copper content. During fertilization, the activity of the fallopian tubes increases. The egg is quickly delivered to the uterus and dies there. This is facilitated by non-infectious inflammation and endometrial atrophy.
The use of folk remedies for emergency contraception at home is possible, but gynecologists are against their use. Lemon, boric acid, potassium permanganate, used as contraceptives, are ineffective and harmful. Douching disrupts the vaginal microflora and changes the acid-base balance, which is unsafe for the health of the genital organs.
After coitus without protection, contact your gynecologist as soon as possible. The doctor will select a drug suitable for a particular case.
First, calculate what day of the cycle you had sex on. If intercourse occurs in the first or last week of the cycle, then emergency contraception is not needed at all, since ovulation does not occur during these periods, which means conception is impossible.
In what cases are emergency contraceptives used?
Let's consider cases when they resort to EC:
- vaginal rape;
- traditional sex without contraception;
- loss or removal before the term of the vaginal cap, shift of the diaphragm, rupture of the male or female condom;
- missing the time of taking two or more contraceptive pills taken as planned, or a hormonal injection;
- prolapse of the intrauterine device;
- interrupted sexual intercourse;
- peeling off the patch.
There are various EC agents available on the pharmacological market. Depending on the type, they are sold in pharmacies both with a prescription and without a prescription. Emergency contraception has been tested for decades and has proven its effectiveness.
Emergency contraception methods
EC methods include: taking combined oral contraceptives (COCs) according to a specific regimen (Yuzpe method), hormonal pills specially designed for use after sexual intercourse, installation of copper-containing intrauterine devices.
Method 1 – Yuzpe method
The Yuzpe method is used within three days after unprotected sexual intercourse. Combined hormonal drugs containing estradiol and levonorgestrel are taken at intervals of 12 hours.
The shorter the period between unprotected vaginal sex and the use of pills, the higher the effectiveness of contraception.
Methods of using the drugs most popular in our country:
- Four tablets are taken to choose from - Femoden, Microgynon, Regulon or Rigevidon . Repeated use of the drug in the same dose occurs after 12 hours.
- Combined oral contraceptives Logest, Novinet, Marsilon are used according to the same scheme, only in this case a single dose is 5 pills.
The dose of active ingredients per dose is 1 mg of levonorgestrel, 200 mcg of estradiol.
The maximum effect is achieved if the COC is used for the first time no later than 12 hours after ejaculation. Effectiveness decreases noticeably if coitus occurs before ovulation.
The Yuzpe method has side effects and contraindications. To minimize negative consequences, consult a doctor to select medication and dosage. If this method of protection does not work and pregnancy occurs, it is better to terminate it, since there is a high risk of developing an abnormal fetus.
Method 2 - hormonal contraceptives
The modern EC method includes protection against conception after unprotected intercourse using specially designed pills. They are divided into those containing gestagens and antiprogestins.
Gestagens
Progestogen analogues, in turn, are divided into synthetic levonorgestrel and norethisterone, which are similar in their effects to natural progesterone. These substances actively suppress the maturation and release of the egg from the ovary, thereby preventing pregnancy.
A common drug of this type is Postinor , containing two tablets, which are taken one at a time at 12-hour intervals. The effectiveness is 90% when used in the first 24 hours after coitus. Taking tablets after 3 days reduces the effectiveness by up to 55%.
Postinor has side effects such as nausea, impaired intestinal motility, headaches, pain in the lower abdomen, and bleeding.
A more modern drug containing twice as much levonorgestrel - Escapelle . It is taken once within three days after unprotected sex. The side effects are the same.
Proved to be effective: Nordiol, Neogest, Microval, taken in the same way as Postinor.
Artificial antiprogestin
Mifepristone known as a short-term abortifacient and as a drug for emergency contraception in the presence of contraindications to other methods of protection against pregnancy.
Antigestagens act throughout the entire cycle. If sexual intercourse occurs before the maturation and release of the egg, then the substance mifepristone suppresses ovulation; if after, it prevents the endometrium from increasing in volume and the egg from attaching to the wall of the uterus.
The drug is used in a dose of 600 mg once.
Headache, tension in the mammary glands, nausea, and vomiting go away quickly after use. A more distant side effect is the failure of menstruation after emergency contraception. To restore the menstrual cycle, it is recommended to take planned hormonal medications after the first menstruation.
The best among emergency contraception containing mifepristone are considered Zhenale, Ginepriston . These tablets are available at the pharmacy with a prescription.
Gynepristone delays the maturation and release of the egg, atrophies the endometrium. Take one tablet once on an empty stomach. In addition to the negative consequences inherent to all medicinal emergency contraceptives, allergic reactions may occur.
Genale - an antiprogestagenic agent, containing 1 tablet per package, slows down the ovulation process, changes the endometrium. Taking a contraceptive can provoke an exacerbation of inflammatory processes in the reproductive organs.
Both drugs are effective for three days after ejaculation.
If we compare the safety and effectiveness of hormonal and non-hormonal contraceptives, both indicators are higher for drugs containing mifepristone 10 mg.
Women who used products with levonorgestrel 1.5 mg had more severe consequences - one and a half times more cases of uterine bleeding, menstrual irregularities, and a twice as high risk of ectopic pregnancy.
Method 3 – intrauterine device
Safe emergency contraception includes intrauterine device . A foreign body made of plastic and copper placed in the uterine cavity causes non-infectious inflammation, leading to the death of sperm and eggs. The spiral acts as a “firefighter” if it is installed 5 days after unprotected coitus.
At first, a nagging pain is felt in the lower abdomen. Menstruation becomes heavy and painful.
After three weeks, a visit is made to the doctor, who examines the patient for pregnancy and checks the correct placement of the drug. If you plan to use other contraceptives as planned in the future, the IUD is removed.
More often it is left as long-term protection against unwanted pregnancy.
Installation and removal of the intrauterine contraceptive takes place in a gynecological office.
Emergency contraception methods do not reduce the risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections. If unprotected intercourse occurred with a one-time partner, then you need to exclude sexually transmitted diseases by passing the appropriate tests at a medical institution.
When and how to take emergency contraceptives
To get results from using emergency contraception follow simple rules:
- before purchasing an emergency contraceptive, consult a gynecologist;
- read the instructions for use;
- COCs, Postinor are used twice with an interval of 12 hours in the first three days after ejaculation;
- Escapelle and tablets with mifepristone are taken once in the first 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse;
- tablets taken in the first 12 hours after the act are more effective;
- it is important to use Ginepristone, Zhenale on an empty stomach and after taking it not to eat for at least 2 hours;
- If you vomit after using an oral contraceptive in the first 2–3 hours, take the pill twice.
Consequences of taking emergency contraceptives
To side effects body for emergency contraception include:
- abdominal pain, migraines;
- dizziness, general weakness;
- nausea, less often vomiting;
- bowel dysfunction;
- allergy;
- bloody vaginal discharge;
- tension in the mammary glands;
- delay of the next menstruation.
Untimely onset of menstruation, accompanied by bleeding, pain in the lower abdomen, can be caused by an ectopic pregnancy. This case requires contacting a doctor.
Consequences of taking medications:
- The risk of uterine bleeding increases with repeated use of emergency contraceptives.
- Vomiting occurs more often after using combined oral medications; this side effect is rarely observed in women using levonorgestrel.
- Medicinal means of “fire” protection against unplanned pregnancy cause harm to breastfed children. The active substances are able to partially penetrate into breast milk.
- Emergency contraception attacks the hormonal system. This is especially true in the case of frequent use of EC drugs. Constant suppression of follicle maturation leads to infertility over time.
- A decrease in the level of estrogen and testosterone in the female body reduces bone density. Menopause begins prematurely. As osteoporosis develops, the risk of fractures increases.
- Changes in ovarian function and hormonal imbalance lead to excess weight gain, increased blood sugar, and increased blood pressure.
- Women with varicose veins are more likely to develop blood clots.
- An intrauterine device can cause significant harm to women's health. The drug can perforate into the endometrium and cause gynecological diseases.
To prevent irreversible consequences, use long-term means of protection, and use emergency contraceptives no more than once every six months.
Contraindications to taking emergency contraceptives
The use of emergency contraceptive medications is contraindicated for the following diseases and conditions:
- pregnancy, breastfeeding period;
- hepatitis, cirrhosis, liver cancer;
- renal failure;
- individual intolerance to active substances;
- long-term nicotine addiction;
- thromboembolism, thrombophlebitis, hereditary tendency to form blood clots;
- young age due to the possible development of infertility;
- oncogenic tumors of the endometrium and mammary glands;
- bleeding from the uterus of unknown origin;
- irregular periods;
- blood clotting disorders;
- constant migraines.
Installation of an intrauterine contraceptive device is contraindicated in the presence of:
- changes in the shape of the uterus caused by abnormal development, fibroids, cancer;
- history of ectopic pregnancy;
- inflammation of the endometrium, ovaries.
Emergency contraception is a high-risk drug. To avoid possible complications, you should follow the dosage, time of administration, and see a doctor.
Even with a list of side effects, pills and IUDs used after unprotected intercourse cause less harm to women’s health than abortion.
- It is possible to use EC while breastfeeding, but take precautions. Before taking the drug, feed the baby, and after it, express and pour out the milk for six hours. This is the minimum period of abstinence from breastfeeding. Optimal - up to one and a half days.
- If 5 days have passed since unprotected sexual intercourse, then the best means of emergency contraception is an intrauterine device.
- Possible pregnancy during several sexual acts within three days is prevented by a single dose of the drug. Take it after your first unprotected coitus.
- Do not use EC more than once every six months.
- Take the tablets before bed, drink plenty of water, this will prevent vomiting.
- Use emergency contraception strictly as directed. Failure to observe the interval between taking tablets reduces effectiveness.
- If after using the drug your next period is delayed, purchase a pregnancy test and double-check the result by visiting your doctor. It is possible for the fertilized egg to be fixed in the uterine cavity, since the products are not 100% effective.
- Before starting a new cycle, protect yourself with barrier methods of protection.
Emergency contraception will not replace planned contraception.
Consult a gynecologist who will select products in accordance with your state of health, number of pregnancies, births, age and physiological characteristics.
In our article we will look at the most effective birth control pills after unprotected intercourse. You will find rules for using these drugs, as well as their features.
Postcoital contraception is considered to be the prevention of pregnancy, which is extremely undesirable. The need to take these medications arises if a woman forgets to take an oral contraceptive on time or the condom breaks during sexual intercourse. Often, postcoital contraception is used after violent sexual intercourse.
It should be noted that preventing pregnancy is possible only if the woman takes an emergency contraceptive within 3 days of unprotected sexual intercourse.
Levonorgestrel-based birth control pills
Emergency contraceptives that contain levonorgestrel prevent fertilization of the egg. After taking the pill, ovulation is delayed due to cervical mucus, which prevents sperm from entering the egg.
Will these birth control pills help after intercourse? depends on the time that has passed since sexual contact:
- up to 24 hours - 95% efficiency;
- 25 - 48 hours - efficiency 85%;
- 49 - 72 hours - effectiveness 58%.
Let's look at which levonorgestrel-based birth control pills are the most effective today:
Name | How long should I take it? | Instructions | Photo |
Within 72 hours | The use of emergency contraception is effective for 3 days. Please note that the package contains 2 tablets, therefore, the emergency contraceptive must be taken twice. The second tablet should be taken 12 hours after taking the first. Without chewing, drink with clean water. | ||
Within 72 hours | Within 3 days after sex (unprotected), you need to take one tablet. If side effects such as vomiting occur, the drug must be taken again. | ![]() |
Emergency contraception based on mifepristone
Thanks to the active substance (mifepristone), ovulation becomes impossible if you take the pill within 3 days of unprotected sexual intercourse. If more than 3 days have passed, mifepristone (increased dosage) is used to terminate pregnancy in the early stages (up to 9 weeks).
Name | How long does it take to take | Instructions | Photo |
Gynepristone | Within 72 hours | Take 1 tablet with a small amount of water. | ![]() |
Genale | Within 72 hours | It is preferable to take this drug 2 hours before meals, provided that at least 2 hours have passed since the last meal. | ![]() |
Agesta | Within 72 hours | Take 1 tablet with a small amount of water. It is preferable to take this drug 2 hours before meals, provided that at least 2 hours have passed since the last meal. | ![]() |
Combined oral contraceptives for emergency contraception (Yuzpe method)
The Yuzpe method is an emergency contraception that is based on oral contraceptives.
To effectively prevent unwanted pregnancy, it is recommended to take the pills within 24 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse. This method is characterized by taking the following medications:
- Marvelon.
- Microgenone
- Regulon.
- Rigevidon.
- Miniziston.
You can also use low-dose hormonal drugs, such as Novinet, Logest or Mercilon. In this case, you need to take 5 tablets twice with an interval of 12 hours.
Emergency contraceptives during lactation
Women who are breastfeeding can use two types of emergency contraception:
Contraceptive | Characteristic |
Installation of an intrauterine device | To prevent an unwanted pregnancy, an ectopic device must be installed within 5 days from the moment of unprotected sexual intercourse. In this case, there is no need to interrupt breastfeeding. It should be noted that after installation of the intrauterine device, the contraceptive effect will remain in the future. |
Taking hormonal pills | If a breastfeeding woman decides to use hormonal drugs to prevent unwanted pregnancy, You must stop breastfeeding for 36 hours. In order not to disrupt milk production during a given period of time, a woman needs to express milk and replace the baby’s food with age-appropriate milk formulas. During lactation, a woman can choose any of the above types of medications. However, experts recommend giving preference to levonorgestrel-based tablets. The most suitable option would be Escapelle tablets, which are taken once. |
Non-hormonal emergency contraceptives
There are two types of emergency contraception:
- hormonal drugs;
- non-hormonal drugs.
Medicines that do not contain hormones include medications based on mifepristone. Let's list their names:
- Genale;
- Gynepristone;
- Agesta.
Preparations based on this active substance do not disrupt hormonal levels. Mifepristone tablets are believed to be more effective than levonorgestrel tablets.
Another advantage of non-hormonal drugs is the lower incidence of side effects.
Which contraceptives are the safest?
The Yuzpe method is considered to be the safest emergency contraception. Low-dose medications have minimal side effects. If you follow the conditions for taking the pills, the effectiveness of this method is 90%.
These contraceptives can be purchased without a prescription.
It should be noted that vaginal contraceptives are not suitable for emergency contraception due to their low effectiveness.
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Cost of emergency contraceptives
How much do pills that prevent unwanted pregnancy cost? Consider the list of tablets and their average cost:
Please note that the prices for drugs are average. Depending on the region of residence, the cost may vary.
When is postcoital contraception acceptable?
It is possible to use emergency contraceptives if pregnancy is extremely undesirable:
- Less than 2 years have passed since the cesarean section.
- The sexual intercourse was of a violent nature.
- Past attempts to become pregnant have ended in miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
Before taking a serious medication, you should consider its contraindications:
- Age up to 18 years.
- Existing pregnancy.
- Menstrual irregularities.
- Malignant tumors.
If bleeding occurs after taking an emergency contraceptive, consult a gynecologist immediately.
If, 2 weeks after using the contraceptive drug, menstruation does not occur on time, you should also consult your doctor.
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Although emergency contraception is harmful to the female body, in some cases (breaking a condom or unprotected sexual intercourse) it is the only way to prevent an unwanted pregnancy without having an abortion, which is even more dangerous. In this article we will look at the most popular pills for emergency (postcoital) contraception.
Remember that postcoital contraceptives should not be used regularly. For permanent protection, there are other methods, for example, hormonal and barrier contraceptives, which do not harm the woman’s body, but are no less effective.
The most popular emergency contraceptives
Postinor– an old generation drug, has a number of side effects. Can be taken no later than 72 hours after sexual intercourse. The sooner the active substance of the tablets enters the body, the lower the risk of becoming pregnant.
Gynepreston (Genale, Agest)- a more modern remedy that prevents fertilization of the egg. A positive effect is achieved if used within the first 72 hours after sexual intercourse.
Escapelle– a new drug based on the hormone levonorgestrel, effective for the first 3 days.
All emergency contraceptive pills have one distinctive feature - if there is vomiting or diarrhea within 2-3 hours after taking it, then the drug has not worked fully and you need to take the pills again.
Doctors recommend minimizing the use of emergency contraceptives; these drugs are allowed to be taken no more than 2-3 times a year. In addition, the pill can prevent unwanted pregnancy, but does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections.
Of course, if a woman is responsible for her health, she carefully considers the best way to protect herself from all the troubles associated with the intimate side of relationships. But it is impossible to foresee everything all the time. Life is multifaceted, and the surprises it sometimes presents are not always pleasant and predictable.
It happens that
– The condom breaks or slips off;
– Coitus interruptus is unsuccessful;
– Two or more oral contraceptive pills are missed;
– Unprotected sexual contact occurs (due to various circumstances).
In all these cases, the risk of becoming pregnant is quite high. However, there is no need to panic. You can also prevent unwanted pregnancy after sexual intercourse using so-called emergency or postcoital contraception.
This is a representative of the old generation of hormonal drugs. One tablet contains 0.75 mg of levonorgestrel (synthetic hormone). It must be applied in two stages. The first Postinor tablet should be taken within 72 hours after sexual intercourse, or preferably immediately after it. The next tablet is 12 hours after the first. The effectiveness of taking Postinor depends on how long after an unprotected act you took this drug:
94% - if the pill was taken within 24 hours after the act;
86% - if the pill was taken within 25-48 hours after the act;
57% - if the pill was taken within 49-72 hours after the act.
Side effects are common after taking it:
Feeling nauseous
Vomit
Diarrhea
Dizziness
Feeling broken
Headache
Painful and unpleasant sensations in the area of the mammary glands and lower abdomen
Temperature increase
Contraindications to taking Postinor are:
Severe liver diseases (hepatitis (even previously suffered), cirrhosis).
Puberty
Postinor can only be used by women with a regular menstrual cycle.
It can be used for a maximum of 96 hours from the date of possible fertilization. Contains twice the amount of levonorgestrel (1.5 mg), so only one tablet is required. The risk of pregnancy is on average 1.1%. Contraindications and side effects are the same as for Postinor.
Gynepristone or Agesta
However, according to the World Health Organization, the first choice method for emergency contraception should be drugs containing the anti-hormone mifepristone. Currently available in pharmacies are Ginepristone and Agesta. Their effectiveness is 98.8%. One tablet containing 10 mg of mifepristone should be taken no later than 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse.
Ginepristone (Agesta) will cause virtually no harm to your reproductive system, but even after taking it you may experience the following side effects:
Unpleasant sensations in the lower abdomen
Feeling weak
Headache attacks
Vomiting or nausea
Allergic rash
Increased body temperature
Failure of the menstrual cycle
Ginepristone (Agesta) should not be used for problems with the liver and kidneys, for changes and disturbances in hormonal levels, as well as for some other diseases.
Frequent use of Ginepristone (Agesta) reduces the effectiveness of its action.
It is necessary to use drugs intended for postcoital protection against pregnancy strictly in accordance with the instructions. This is done on an empty stomach (at least 2 hours must have passed since the last meal) and do not eat anything for 2 hours after the pills are taken.
If emergency contraception causes vomiting within three hours of use, the effectiveness of the drug is sharply reduced. An additional dose must be taken.
Remember that even after you have taken emergency contraceptive pills, after some time you need to contact your personal gynecologist:
To check whether you have unwanted infections - these drugs do not protect against diseases transmitted through sexual contact
To make sure that pregnancy has not yet occurred (this is especially true if your period is delayed for more than a week after taking the pills or if your menstrual flow is suspiciously scanty).
So that the doctor, after observing your menstrual cycle for some time, prescribes treatment, if necessary, to stimulate ovarian function.
Emergency (urgent) contraception is not so harmless: it can cause hormonal imbalance and dysfunction of the reproductive system. In addition, their use is less effective than the systematic use of conventional birth control pills or careful use of condoms.
But it’s better to take advantage of them than to take risks: the body will cope with the consequences of taking them quite quickly, and you will have to take care of a child born as a result of an unplanned pregnancy for the rest of your life.
What to do if the condom breaks?
So, if you suspect you might be pregnant, it's best to take the necessary steps.
1. Decide which drug you will use. It is better to opt for the drugs Ginepristone or Agesta. By the way, these drugs are cheaper than Postinor.
2. Go to the pharmacy as soon as possible. Better yet, use your phone and find out what is available and where. At the pharmacy, they may advise you in the old fashioned way about Escapelle and Postinor, and for Ginepristone or Agesta, require a doctor’s prescription. In any case, it makes sense to go to the gynecologist first. If Ginepristone or Agesta are basically not available, then buy Escapelle.
3. If you find yourself abroad, there may be similar drugs under other names. For example, instead of Postinor, you may find Plan B, Levonelle, NorLevo and others. And if you are not ready to communicate, say, in a Turkish pharmacy, then it is better to take emergency contraception with you.
4. If you find yourself on a camping trip or in some place where traces of civilization are barely visible, then it would be a good idea to take care of emergency contraception in advance. Otherwise, you should get hold of regular birth control pills by hook or by crook. Of course, they were not originally intended for such purposes, but in case of emergency they can be used, and quite successfully. They, like the drugs described above, must be taken the sooner the better (maximum period - 72 hours). They are used as Postinor in 2 doses (the second dose 12 hours after the first is taken). But the number of tablets in 1 dose, depending on the concentration and composition of hormones, may be different:
– Containing ethinyl estradiol (MARVELON, MINIZISTON, MICROGENON, FEMODEN, RIGEVIVIDONE): dose – 4 tablets;
– Containing ethinyl estradiol (NON-OVLON, BISECURIN, OVIDON, OVULEN, ANOVLAR): dose – 2 tablets;
– Mini-pills (MICROLUT, EXCLUTON, OVRET) contain the same active ingredient as Postinor, but in very small quantities, so the dose to achieve the effect must be “impact” - 20 tablets.
And now about some psychological aspects for the young and inexperienced.
1. Girls, finding themselves in such a situation, very often begin to worry greatly about their health. Believe me, this situation happens to many, and to some, 5-6 times during an active sexual life. Excessive nervousness will harm you more than any drug.
2. If you are still young and feel guilty about buying emergency contraception, then visit a pharmacy in another area that you will probably never visit again.
3. Of course, it is better to ask your partner to buy the pills, but, as a rule, young people are also embarrassed to do this. If your man unconditionally agrees to take the situation into his own hands, rest assured: you can count on him in the future. If not, act on your own, and you will sort out your relationship later: now you have a more urgent matter.
4. If you don’t feel the moral strength at all, call a friend as a “support group.” She may even agree to buy the drug for you, but you shouldn’t abuse this: in the end, it’s best to solve your problems yourself.
5. “Emergency” pills are relatively expensive, but this is not a reason to refuse to buy them. You can ask or borrow money
– Your partner (which is quite logical)
- At a friend's
- Mom’s, after all
For the last two, it is better to come up with a plausible excuse rather than name the true reason; however, this depends on the degree of closeness of your relationship.