Timely choices: Deciding when to use emergency contraception

Emergency contraceptives are available at pharmacies and retail outlets in many regions without prescription, making them readily available for use by women of all ages.

- Dr. Nandita Palshetkar Obstetrician, Gynecologist, Medical Director of Bloom IVF, Lilavati Hospital

Types of Emergency Contraception

There are three primary forms of emergency contraception available:

Oral ProgestogenOnly Emergency Contraceptive (POEC)

Levonorgestrel (LNG) is the most popular oral emergency contraception.

Effectiveness can last up to 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. This method and its effectiveness are timesensitive, hence making prompt administration is vital.

Selective Progesterone Receptor Modulator (SPRM)

Ulipristal acetate (UPA) is effective for up to 120 hours after intercourse and is usually more effective than LNG, especially towards the end of the time frame. UPA seems most useful for women who have exceeded the 72-hour time limit for LNG.

Copper Intrauterine Device (Cu-IUCD)

The Cu-IUCD is the most effective emergency contraceptive technique in all instances. It is advised that it is inserted within five days after unprotected intercourse in order to prevent pregnancy.

Additionally, it provides ongoing contraception for up to ten years, making it a versatile option.

Timing of administration