What is an emergency contraceptive pill (ECP)?
The emergency contraceptive pill is a medicine taken after unprotected intercourse to prevent pregnancy.
How does ECP work?
The emergency contraceptive pills stop or delay the release of an egg from your ovaries or prevent the egg from fertilizing with the sperm by changing the way sperm moves in your body.
It does not work after fertilization and does not affect the developing embryo in your womb.
When to take ECP?
An emergency contraceptive pill stays for five days in your body. But it is recommended to take within 72 hours (three days) of sex and for some people, it is effective even after four days.
Is it effective?
The ECP has a success rate of 98% if it is taken at on right time (72 hours). Its effectiveness also depends upon weight, so consult your doctor for effective ECP for you.
Does it have any side effects?
Like any medicine, it also has some side effects which can vary as everybody body reacts differently to foreign elements, but the most common side effects are nausea and vomiting or stomach pain.
Tips for birth control pills for first-timer
- Take the pill right before bed so you won’t feel nauseated
- Not to take on an empty stomach
- Make your fix time to take your pill evening is considered to be the best time
- Begin your pill consumption on your last day of the mensuration cycle
- Give your body time to adjust to the pill, if it still does not suit you then go for another one or consult a doctor.
Consulting a doctor is best for preventing most of the side effects and learning about the best ECP that can help you.