Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraceptives are methods of preventing pregnancy after unprotected sexual intercourse. They do not protect against sexually transmitted infections. Emergency contraception can be used when a condom breaks, after a sexual assault, or any time unprotected sexual intercourse occurs. Do not use emergency contraceptives as your only protection against pregnancy if you are sexually active or planning to be, because they are not as effective as any ongoing contraceptive method. There are two types of …

…you to take the second dose 12 hours after the first dose. Each dose is 1, 2, 4, or 5 pills, depending on the brand. Not all brands of birth control pills can be used for emergency contraception. Emergency contraceptive pills require a prescription. Do not use then except under the care of someone licensed to prescribe. Most women can safely use emergency contraceptive pills, even if they cannot use birth control pills as their regular method of birth control.