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Emergency contraception (EC) is a back-up that can prevent pregnancy after sex without protection, or when a method has failed. It works best when used as soon as possible, so time matters.
It is not an abortion and it is not meant for regular use. This guide explains your options, the time windows, and the myths that often stop women from getting help.
What Is Emergency Contraception?
The World Health Organization (WHO) describes emergency contraception as methods that prevent pregnancy after sex. Typical situations are no contraception was used, a condom broke or slipped, pills were missed, or sex was not consensual. It is for emergencies and not a substitute for a regular method.
Your Options and How Long You Have
WHO lists two types: emergency pills and a copper intrauterine device (IUD). Guidance on timing differs slightly between organisations, so check with a doctor or pharmacist.
- Copper IUD: a small device placed in the womb by a doctor or nurse. WHO and the NHS both describe it as the most effective option. It can be fitted within five days (120 hours) of unprotected sex.
- Levonorgestrel pill: the NHS says to take it within three days (72 hours). WHO says the pills can be used up to five days, but they work better the sooner they are taken.
- Ulipristal acetate pill: the NHS says it can be taken up to five days (120 hours) after sex. WHO notes that it works better than other pills between 72 and 120 hours.
India has long used levonorgestrel-based emergency pills. A review in the Indian literature reports that they were introduced in 2002. If you are not sure which type you are buying, ask the pharmacist to explain the time limit on the pack.
How Well Does It Work?
WHO reports a low pregnancy rate after taking an emergency pill: roughly 1 to 2 in 100. The copper IUD is more than 99 in 100 effective when placed within five days. Pills may be less effective in people with a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more, but they remain safe to take. The CDC also notes that certain medicines and herbal products can weaken their effect, so tell the doctor or pharmacist what else you take.
What to Do Right Now
- Note how many hours have passed since the unprotected sex. This decides which options are open to you.
- Contact a pharmacist, a health centre or a doctor straight away, and say clearly that it is an emergency contraception request.
- Tell them about your weight, any other medicines you take and whether you are breastfeeding.
- Ask whether a copper IUD is possible if you also want long-term protection.
- Take a pregnancy test if your next period is late, and start a regular method once your doctor says it is safe.
Where to Get It in India
A review of emergency contraception in India reports that the pills have been sold over the counter since 2005. The same review says the government has supplied them free through health facilities and ASHA workers since 2011, although supply is uneven. Rules and availability can change, so ask a pharmacist, a government health centre or a doctor what is currently available near you.
If you want the copper IUD, you will need to see a doctor. Do not delay seeking it, because the five-day limit is firm.
Side Effects to Expect
WHO says side effects of the pills are usually mild and short-lived. They may include nausea, vomiting, light irregular bleeding and tiredness. If you vomit soon after taking a pill, contact a doctor or pharmacist promptly, because the pill may need to be repeated.
Tip: Do not wait to feel certain. If you are unsure whether you are at risk, start the process anyway. The sooner you get advice, the more options you will have.
Myths and Facts
- Myth: It is an abortion pill. Fact: WHO states that emergency pills prevent or delay ovulation and cannot end an established pregnancy or harm a developing embryo. The Indian review notes that some doctors wrongly believe they work as an abortion pill.
- Myth: It harms future fertility. Fact: WHO says there is no delay in the return of fertility after using it.
- Myth: Only unmarried or young women need it. Fact: WHO says any woman or girl of reproductive age may need emergency contraception. The Indian review specifically says the evidence does not support linking its use to promiscuity.
- Myth: It is unsafe while breastfeeding. Fact: The Indian review lists this as a common provider misunderstanding. Ask your doctor about your situation.
- Myth: It protects you from infections. Fact: It does not. The CDC says none of these methods protect against STIs or HIV.
Why It Is Not for Regular Use
WHO advises against using emergency pills repeatedly as your main method. They are less reliable than regular methods, and frequent use can cause irregular periods. If you find yourself needing it often, a regular method will protect you better. See our overview of contraception options for a comparison.
After taking a pill, you can start or resume a regular method. WHO says that after ulipristal you should wait six days before starting methods that contain progestogen. Always ask your doctor how to restart your usual method safely.
When to be cautious: If you have had unprotected sex and also fear an infection, or if sex was forced, see a doctor as soon as you can. Emergency contraception does not treat infections, and a doctor can arrange tests and support. Read more about STI prevention and screening.
When to See a Doctor
- Your period is more than a week late after taking emergency contraception
- You have severe lower abdominal pain, which can occasionally mean an ectopic pregnancy
- You have heavy bleeding or feel faint
- You are already pregnant or think you might be, because the pills are not for use in known pregnancy
- You need emergency contraception repeatedly
- You want the copper IUD (within five days)
Our guide on ectopic pregnancy symptoms and emergency signs explains why severe one-sided pain needs urgent care, and the emergency page shows how to reach help quickly.
Talk to a Doctor
If you need advice about emergency contraception or a regular method, book an appointment at Chaitanya Hospital, Kadapa, or call +91 944 103 0587. Teleconsultation is also available. This article is for general awareness and is not a substitute for a doctor's advice.
References
This article was written in our own words from the following public health sources.
Educational content
Please note. This article is for general awareness and is not a substitute for a doctor’s advice, diagnosis or treatment. If you are worried about your health, or in an emergency, call +91 944 103 0587 or visit the hospital.
