The emergency pill (also known as the 'morning after pill' or postcoital pill) is a hormone preparation which is used after unprotected intercourse or after the failure of another contraceptive method (e.g. burst condom). In this way an unplanned pregnancy can be subsequently prevented.

There are various preparations available: combined estrogen-progestin pills and progestin-only pills. The hormones are taken in two doses.

The first dose must be taken within 72 hours after the unprotected intercourse, the second dose 12 hours after the first.

The 'morning after pill' is always an emergency measure. It is not suitable for regular use.

Action and effectiveness of the emergency pill

Occurrence of a pregnancy is prevented in about 85 % of the cases. The effectiveness of the method is greater the earlier the hormones are taken. You should therefore go to a doctor or emergency clinic as soon as possible if you need the emergency pill. In some countries the emergency pill is available without prescription.

Vomiting within 3 hours after taking the tablet can compromise the effectiveness of the emergency pill. In such a case a further tablet should be taken immediately.

After using the emergency pill it is advisable to use mechanical contraceptives (e.g. condom or cervical cap) until your next period. After your next period you can start using hormonal contraception again.

Remember that the emergency pill does not provide protection against HIV or other sexually transmitted diseases.

Advantages of the emergency pill

Any couple can make mistakes with contraception. The emergency pill is an effective way of preventing an unwanted pregnancy 'after the fact'. Every child should be a wanted child: by choice - not chance.

Side-effects and risks

The emergency pill is a potent drug which can also have unwanted side-effects. The following information gives a general outline of the side-effects and risks of the emergency pill. However, in case of conflicting information the product information of the preparation you have been prescribed always takes precedence. It is therefore important to read the pack insert carefully and follow any advice given by your doctor.

After taking the emergency pill you may experience nausea and vomiting, pelvic pain, tiredness, headaches, dizziness and breast tenderness.

There may be temporary bleeding abnormalities. However, in most women the next period comes at the expected time.

If your next period is more than 5 days overdue you should see a doctor to rule out a pregnancy. Studies have shown no evidence that the treatment causes any harm to the child if emergency contraception fails and pregnancy occurs.

If your 'emergency pill' contains estrogen and progestin the side-effects, risks and contraindications are largely those of other estrogen-progestin preparations for contraception. For further information you should therefore read the section 'Side-effects and risks of the combined oral contraceptive'.

Other forms of emergency contraception

Apart from the emergency pill, the copper-containing intrauterine device can also be used for emergency contraception. Insertion of the device effectively prevents implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterine lining. The intrauterine device must be inserted postcoitally within 5 days after the estimated time of ovulation.