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Sometimes, things don’t go as planned. Maybe the condom broke, you missed a birth control pill, or you had unprotected sex and are now unsure what to do. That’s where emergency contraception comes in.
If you act quickly, you can still prevent pregnancy safely and legally. This blog explains your options, how they work, and why an IUD is one of the most effective ones out there.
Emergency contraception helps to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. It doesn’t cause an abortion and it won’t work if you’re already pregnant. It simply prevents fertilization or implantation before pregnancy starts. The emergency contraceptive methods are to be used as a backup methods and are most effective when used as soon as possible after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. Emergency contraceptives are not to be used as regular contraceptives.
There are two main options:
1. Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs):
2. Copper IUD
Levonorgestrel Pills and Ulipristal Acetate Pills
Levonorgestrel Pills : These pills contain hormones (levonorgestrel)that prevent or delay ovulation. Effective for up to 72 hours after single unprotected intercourse. Common brands Such as i-Pill, Unwanted 72 and many more Levonorgestrel pills are available over the counter in India.
Ulipristal Acetate Pills : Can prevent or delay ovulation for up to 120 hours (5 days) after a single unprotected sex. This may not be easily available everywhere in India, but it’s a prescription option in some countries.
This pill is more effective than levonorgestrel, especially if taken between days 3 and 5 after single unprotected sex.
The pills delays ovulation so sperm can’t meet the egg and impair the fertilization .
The side effects are temporary and include Mild nausea, fatigue or irregular bleeding.
The use Of Levonorgestrel Pills can reduces the risk of pregnancy by 75 to 89 percent if taken within 3 days of a single act of unprotected sex . The Effectiveness of Ulipristal Acetate Pills is Up to 98 percent if taken within 120 hours.
A copper IUD can be used as emergency contraception too. This device can be inserted by a healthcare professional up to five days after a single act of unprotected sex and is considered the most effective form of emergency contraception.
The copper in the IUD creates an environment that stops sperm from fertilizing the egg and prevents implantation if fertilization has already happened.
Can be inserted up to 5 days after a single act of unprotected sex
More than 99 percent effective. The copper IUD is the most effective method of EC, with significantly lower failure rates compared to emergency contraceptive pills.
Once inserted, it keeps providing a Long-lasting protection.
You’ll need to visit a doctor to get it inserted. Some teens may find that intimidating, but if you want long-term, hormone-free birth control, this is a smart option.
In India, Copper IUDs like Cu T 380A and Cu 375, TCu380 Plus and Copper-Silver IUD TCu380Ag in two Sizes Mini & Normal- manufactured by SMB Corporation of India are widely used and recommended in both government and private clinics. They’re safe, regulatory approved by CDSCO, Health Canada, ANVISA and WHO-UNFPA and trusted by doctors globally.
Yes. Emergency contraception is safe, even for teens. It doesn’t affect your ability to get pregnant in the future, and it doesn’t cause miscarriage or harm your body.
But it’s not meant to be used regularly. It is to be used only as a backup plan, and not your main method of birth control.
Emergency contraception gives you options, even when things don’t go as planned. Whether it’s a pill or an IUD, acting quickly makes a difference.
If you’re considering a copper IUD not just for emergencies but for long-term peace of mind then talk to a Gynaecologist. Brands like those from SMB Corporation of India are safe, effective, and widely available.
Being informed is the first step. You don’t have to make these decisions alone.
Note : This blog is for educational purposes only. Please consult a healthcare provider for personal advice.
