What You Need to Know About Emergency Contraception

Last updated 9 months ago

When you are sexually active but do not want to become pregnant, preemptive contraception measures are ideal for your protection. However, accidents can happen that might result in a need for emergency contraception. Emergency contraception is typically referred to as the morning after pill or plan B. This is because it should be used as a secondary measure for preventing unwanted pregnancy. Here are some quick facts about the morning after pill to help you understand what it does:

Emergency contraception is not an abortion pill. People often confuse emergency contraception with abortion, but these are two very different options. While abortion is intended to terminate a pregnancy, emergency contraception prevents a pregnancy from taking place. Emergency contraception, which can be taken up to five days after unprotected sex, works by preventing the ovaries from releasing eggs so that no implantation can take place.
The morning after pill works best when taken early. Although you can use emergency contraception for up to five days after unprotected intercourse, it is most effective when taken early. There are actually two types of emergency contraception that you can choose from: an orally administered pill or an IUD insertion. Both are relatively the same in their effectiveness.
Failed emergency contraception has no effect on the baby. In some cases, emergency contraception can fail to prevent pregnancy. This type of pregnancy poses no risk to the child, so normal development should take place barring other medical complications.

If you would like more information about emergency contraceptives, visit Lovejoy Surgicenter. We have been a trusted source for reproductive health in Oregon for over 40 years, and we can help you determine the best option for your situation. Learn more about our services by visiting us online or by calling us at (503) 715-3509.