The emergency contraceptive pill: what to know

Emergency contraception works mainly by delaying or preventing ovulation. It is time-sensitive, so taking it as soon as possible matters. Levonorgestrel is one medicine used for emergency contraception; it is different from the daily combined pill, which contains ingredients such as ethinylestradiol and is taken on a regular schedule.

Your next period may arrive earlier or later than expected, and bleeding can be lighter, heavier, or different from usual. The tablet does not provide ongoing contraception for sex later in the cycle. It also does not prevent sexually transmitted infections.

Ask a pharmacist or clinician which emergency option fits your timing, medicines, health history, and body weight. Follow the product instructions carefully, and mention if you vomit soon after taking a dose because another dose may be needed.

Use condoms or another reliable method for later sex. If your period is late or unusually light, take a pregnancy test and arrange advice. Discuss regular contraception if you want protection that continues beyond this episode.

Seek urgent medical help for severe or one-sided lower abdominal pain, fainting, marked dizziness, or heavy bleeding. These symptoms need assessment even if you have taken emergency contraception. Contact a clinician if your period remains absent, pregnancy symptoms develop, or you are unsure whether the tablet was absorbed.

Ask which emergency contraceptive is suitable, whether your regular medicines affect it, when to restart or begin routine contraception, and when a pregnancy test will be meaningful.