Sex Toys for Men, Women and Couples

Description
Emergency contraceptive pills contain either progestin or progestin and estrogen. Insertion of an IUD after unprotected sex is also an effective method of birth control.

How It Works
Emergency contraception works by stopping the release or fertilization of an egg, or by blocking implantation of an egg. It will not cause an abortion. Taking pills or having an IUD inserted needs to be done as soon as possible after unprotected sex (usually within 72 hours), to increase the chances of preventing pregnancy.

Regular birth control pills may be used as emergency contraception under the guidance of your health care provider.

Should You Use It?
Emergency contraception can be used after unprotected vaginal intercourse. It is usually provided by public hospitals after cases of rape. It is used only in women who are not pregnant from a previous act of intercourse. It is the most effective way to avoid an unplanned pregnancy after the failure of condoms or after unprotected sex.

Effectiveness
According to the Food and Drug Administration, there is an almost 80% reduction in the risk of pregnancy after a single act of unprotected sex when correctly using the pill forms of emergency contraception. Only 1 out of 1000 women will become pregnant after an emergency IUD insertion.

STI Protection
The use of emergency contraception does not prevent the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV.

Advantages

• This is the best way to prevent unintended pregnancy after condom failure or when no birth control method was used.
• Most symptoms of taking emergency contraception pills clear up within two days.
• Emergency contraception will not affect an existing pregnancy.

Disadvantages

• A small number of women may experience upset stomach or may vomit after taking emergency contraception pills. Anti-nausea pills may be taken to reduce the likelihood of vomiting.
• Some women may temporarily experience headaches, dizziness, irregular bleeding and breast tenderness.

Where to Buy It
In the United States, emergency contraceptive pills require a prescription. You can get pills from your doctor, nurse practitioner, nurse midwife, health department or family planning clinic. Use the emergency contraception hotline -- 1-888-NOT-2-LATE -- to locate emergency contraception in your area. If you choose emergency IUD insertion, contact your health care provider.

Follow Up
Consult your doctor for complete information on potential side effects, or to answer any questions.

Contraception Overview