Emergency contraception helps prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex. Emergency contraception isn't meant to be used in place of routine birth control — but it's an option if you've had unprotected sex, your method of birth control failed or you missed a birth control pill.
To be effective, emergency contraception must be used as soon as possible after unprotected sex. In the U.S., two types of emergency contraception are available: emergency contraceptive pills and the copper intrauterine device (IUD).
Emergency contraception pills are also known as the morning-after pill. Emergency contraception pills — such as Next Choice One Dose, Plan B One-Step and Ella — can be used up to five days after unprotected sex. However, the pills are more effective the sooner you take them.
Another option is a copper IUD (ParaGard). To prevent pregnancy, the IUD must be inserted within five days after unprotected sex.
Aug. 23, 2018
- Frequently asked questions. Contraception FAQ114. Emergency contraception. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. http://www.acog.org/Patients/FAQs/Emergency-Contraception. Accessed Jan. 8, 2018.
- Hatcher RA, et al. Contraceptive Technology. 20th ed. New York, N.Y.: Ardent Media; 2011:45.
- Harms RW (expert opinion). Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn. Nov. 20, 2014.