Emergency birth control
Emergency birth control (pronunciation: /ɪˈmɜːdʒənsi bɜːθ kənˈtrəʊl/), also known as the morning-after pill, is a type of contraception used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse or contraceptive failure (e.g., a condom that broke or slipped).
Etymology
The term "emergency birth control" is derived from its use in emergency situations, where regular contraceptive methods have failed or were not used.
Types of Emergency Birth Control
There are primarily two types of emergency birth control:
- Levonorgestrel (Plan B One-Step, Take Action, Next Choice One Dose, My Way): These pills contain levonorgestrel, a type of progestin. They are available over-the-counter without a prescription.
- Ulipristal Acetate (Ella): This pill contains ulipristal acetate and is available only with a prescription.
Usage
Emergency birth control should be used within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure to be most effective. The sooner it's taken, the better it works.
Side Effects
Possible side effects of emergency birth control include nausea, abdominal pain, fatigue, headache, and menstrual changes.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Emergency birth control
- Wikipedia's article - Emergency birth control
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