Emergency contraception

Emergency contraception can be used if contraception was not used or if contraception fails (e.g. condom breaks or contraceptive pills missed).

There are two types of emergency contraception:

• Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs)
• Copper intra-uterine device (IUD). This can be inserted within 120 hours (5 days) of unprotected sex and will also provide very effective long-term contraception.

How do they work?

ECPs

ECPs are sometimes called ‘the morning after pill’. This is incorrect. Although it is more effective the sooner it’s taken, it can be taken up to 5 days after unprotected sex depending on the ECP you take. It is best to check with your doctor or pharmacist which ECP is best for you. 

• Levonorgestrel emergency contraceptive pill (LNG-ECP). This is best taken up to 96 hours (4 days) after unprotected sex.
• Ulipristal acetate emergency contraceptive pill (UAP-ECP). This can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex and is more effective for people weighing over 70kg.

ECPs do not prevent implantation of a fertilised egg but they do work by stopping or delaying the release of an egg by the ovary (ovulation).

If the ECP is accidentally taken during pregnancy it does not cause harm to the developing embryo or foetus. The ECP does not cause an abortion.

You can get ECPs over the counter at a pharmacy. You do not need a prescription. The pharmacist asks questions to make sure they give you the right treatment. They should offer for you to move to a private area to answer these questions. They may ask you to write the answers down on a form.

Copper IUDs

The copper IUD works by affecting sperm movement, preventing the fertilisation of an egg and may also prevent the implantation of a fertilised egg.

The copper IUD can be inserted at some sexual health clinics, gynaecologists and some GPs. You may need an appointment before the insertion.

Things to consider

• Almost anyone can take ECPs if they need to, even if they are unable to take contraceptive pills on a long-term basis but it is important for the pharmacist or doctor to know if you have any allergies or serious medical conditions.
• ECPs can cause nausea and vomiting, and vaginal bleeding.
• It is important to have a check-up 3 weeks after using emergency contraception to make sure it was successful in preventing a pregnancy.
• If ECPs were not successful in preventing a pregnancy and unusual pain or bleeding occurs, it is important to see a doctor to make sure there is no ectopic pregnancy (a pregnancy that develops outside the uterus, usually in a Fallopian tube).
• It is not recommended to take a progestogen-containing method of contraception within 5 days of UPA-ECP as it may reduce the effectiveness of the ECP. This includes all oral contraceptive pills, vaginal ring, contraceptive implant and injection.
• With LNG-ECP, it is possible to continue your hormonal method of contraception immediately after taking it. You can contact your doctor to discuss your options.

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This publication is provided for education and information purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical care. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not imply endorsement and is not intended to replace advice from your healthcare professional. Readers should note that over time currency and completeness of the information may change. All users should seek advice from a qualified healthcare professional for a diagnosis and answers to their medical questions.