What do you know about emergency contraception and the side effects?

It is a form of contraception that works well and can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or if you have failed to use your normal contraceptive method. It works by preventing or delaying ovulation, so that the sperm and egg don’t have a chance to meet. EC is available in two forms – either as an emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) or an intrauterine device (IUD).

ECPs can cause nausea, vomiting and abdominal cramps. Other side effects include fatigue, headaches, irregular bleeding, fatigue and breast tenderness. These side effects usually subside within 48-72 hours of taking the drug. However, it’s important to seek medical attention if any of these symptoms persist beyond 48 hours. Additionally, there is a risk of ectopic pregnancy when using EC pills so it’s important to take a pregnancy test if you experience ongoing symptoms such as missed periods and/or lower abdomen pain for more than 2 weeks following use of EC pills.