The emergency contraceptive Pill
DESCRIPTION
There are 2 types of emergency contraceptive pill. The first (PLAN B) contains progesterone only whereas the second (OVRAL) contains estrogen and progesterone. Plan B is more effective, with fewer side effects, and should be the first choice.
EFFECTIVENESS
The emergency contraceptive pill (both types) may be taken up to 120 hours after unprotected sex. However,the sooner it is taken after intercourse, the more effective it is.
When PLAN B is taken within 12 hours of unprotected sex, it reduces the risk of pregnancy by more than 95%. Effectiveness decreases with time and is approximately 60% after 5 days for Plan B. Ovral's effectiveness is lower.
HOW IT WORKS
The emergency contraceptive pill mainly works by delaying ovulation.
USE
Plan B: 2 pills in a single dose
or
1 pill as soon as possible
1 pill 12 hours later
CONTRAINDICATIONS
There are no contraindications. All women may use the emergency contraceptive pill (both types).
NAUSEA
Some women may experience nausea with Plan B. However, with Ovral this side effect is stronger and may even be accompanied by vomiting. If you vomit the Ovral pills within an hour of taking them, you must take more pills.
MENSTRUAL CYCLE
Caution: The emergency contraceptive pill does not trigger a menstrual period. Usually, your menstrual cycle is not affected. THE EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTIVE PILL IS NOT EFFECTIVE FOR SEXUAL RELATIONS THAT OCCUR AFTER YOU TAKE IT.
Consequently, you will need to use another method of contraception for any sexual relations up until you get your next period.. If you did not begin your period one week after the scheduled date, or 3 weeks after taking the emergency contraceptive pill, you must have a pregnancy test done. If you are pregnant, there is no danger for the fetus.
BREASTFEEDING
The emergency contraceptive pill may be taken by women who are breastfeeding. This medication is not dangerous for babies.
WHERE CAN I GET IT?
In Rimouski:
La Clinique de planning des naissances
Monday to Friday
8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Drop in
1:30 PM to 4:30 PM
CLSC Rimouski-Neigette
Monday to Friday
8:15 AM to 4:30 PM
Polyvalente Paul-Hubert
Students enrolled at the school: Health Department
Hospital Emergency Department
Evenings and Weekends
Your doctor
A drop-in clinic
Your pharmacist
He may provide you with the pills without a prescription.
Outside Rimouski:
Contact your CLSC, hospital emergency department, doctor or pharmacist.
This method of contraception is, however, an emergency measure. If you are taking the emergency contraceptive pill, this is a good time to re-evaluate your usual method of contraception.
IF IT'S TOO LATE TO TAKE THE EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTIVE PILL
A morning-after IUD may be inserted up to 7 days after unprotected intercourse. This method is almost 100% effective but involves certain risks that will be explained to you by your doctor.