In Australia, access to effective emergency contraception is essential for those who experience unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. One of the most recognised options is the morning after pill (also known as emergency contraception). This article explores the effectiveness of the morning after pill, answering key questions about its use and safety.
What is the Morning After Pill?
The morning after pill is a form of emergency contraception designed to reduce the risk of pregnancy after unprotected sex. Often referred to as “Plan B,” it is not an abortion pill and does not provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)(1).
Understanding Emergency Contraception
Emergency contraception is like having a backup plan for preventing pregnancy when things don’t go as expected. Imagine you had unprotected sex or something went wrong with your regular birth control – that’s where the morning-after pill comes in. It’s not an abortion pill, but rather a way to stop pregnancy before it even starts.
Depending on the type, you can find it at the pharmacy, either over-the-counter or online or family planning clinic in your state. The trick is to take it as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse. It works by either stopping your egg from meeting sperm, preventing fertilisation, or making it hard for a fertilised egg to stick in the womb.
So, in simple terms, the emergency contraception pill is like a safety net to help you avoid an unplanned pregnancy hiccup. Knowing how it works, when to use it, and the types available is like having that extra peace of mind when you need it most.
How Does the Morning After Pill Work?
The morning after pill works primarily by stopping or delaying ovulation, which is when the ovary releases an egg. If taken before ovulation, it can effectively prevent pregnancy. However, if ovulation has already occurred and the egg has been fertilised, the pill will not terminate an established pregnancy (1).
When Should You Use the Morning After Pill?
The effectiveness of the morning after pill diminishes over time. It’s improtant to take it as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse. Here’s a quick guide:
- Levonorgestrel (LNG) Pill: Effective when taken within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex. However, it is best taken within 24 hours for maximum effectiveness.
- Ulipristal Acetate (UPA) Pill: Can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex, with higher effectiveness compared to LNG throughout this period (1).
How Effective is the Morning After Pill?
The morning after pill is highly effective when used correctly:
- Levonorgestrel (LNG): Reduces the risk of pregnancy by about 89% when taken within 72 hours after unprotected sex.
- Ulipristal Acetate (UPA): Maintains a higher effectiveness rate compared to LNG, especially when taken closer to the time of unprotected sex.
For both types, the sooner they are taken, the better the chances of preventing pregnancy (1).
Is the Morning After Pill Safe?
Yes, the morning after pill is safe for most individuals. However, it should be used as a backup method and not as a regular form of contraception. It does not have long-term effects on fertility and does not cause any significant side effects for the majority of users. Common side effects may include nausea, fatigue, and changes in menstrual bleeding (1).
Do You Need to Follow Up After Taking the Morning After Pill?
While no follow-up is typically required, it’s important to monitor your menstrual cycle. If your period is more than a week late after taking the pill, consider taking a pregnancy test or consulting a healthcare professional for further guidance.
Where Can You Get the Morning After Pill?
In Australia, the morning after pill can be obtained from in-person or online pharmacies without a prescription. It is recommended to speak with a pharmacist or healthcare provider to choose the most appropriate option based on individual circumstances.
Conclusion
The morning after pill is a vital resource for preventing unintended pregnancies after unprotected intercourse. By understanding how it works, its effectiveness, and its safety profile, Australians can make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
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Sources
- Healthdirect Australia. (n.d.). Morning after pill (emergency contraception). Retrieved September 24, 2024, from https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/morning-after-pill
