Emergency contraception - meaning and definition
AlsoECpost-coital contraceptionemergency birth controlemergency contraceptive
Not yet reviewed by a clinician. This health entry was written from the public-health sources listed below and is general information only. It is not medical advice.
Definition
Emergency contraception is a method used after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure to reduce the chance of pregnancy.
At a glance
- It is used after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure to reduce the chance of pregnancy.
- The two main types are the copper IUD and emergency contraceptive pills.
- The copper IUD is the most effective option and can be fitted up to five days after sex.
- It does not end an existing pregnancy and is not a form of abortion.
- It does not protect against infections.
In detail
There are two main types: the copper IUD, which is the most effective option and can be fitted up to five days after sex, and emergency contraceptive pills, which work best the sooner they are taken. Situations where it may be needed include a split condom, missed pills or sex without contraception.
Emergency contraception does not end an existing pregnancy and is not a form of abortion. It also does not protect against infections, so a sexual health check may be worth considering too. Pharmacies and sexual health services in many countries provide it quickly and confidentially.
In a sentence
- After the condom split we went to the pharmacy for emergency contraception.
- The sexual health clinic offered emergency contraception and an STI check in the same visit.
Not to be confused with
- Medication abortion
Medication abortion ends an established pregnancy; emergency contraception prevents one from starting.
- PEP
PEP is emergency medicine to prevent HIV after a possible exposure, not to prevent pregnancy.
Common questions
Is emergency contraception the same as abortion?
No. Emergency contraception works before a pregnancy is established and does not end an existing pregnancy.
Where can I get emergency contraception?
Pharmacies and sexual health services in many countries provide it quickly and confidentially. Because pills work best the sooner they are taken, it helps to seek it as soon as possible, and a clinician can also discuss a copper IUD.