Emergency Contraception

Laramie Reproductive Health offers emergency contraception pills and copper IUD insertions. We do request that you call ahead to schedule an appointment for these services.

What is Emergency Contraception?

Emergency contraception (EC) is a form of birth control used after sex. It is typically used in situations such as unprotected sex, possible contraceptive failures, misuse of contraception, and sexual assault. EC is not a termination method, if you are already pregnant EC will not disrupt your pregnancy. It is strongly recommended that EC is used within five days after sex, but the sooner the better.

Methods

There are four methods of EC:

EC pills that contain ulipristal acetate
EC pills that contain levonogestrel.
Combined oral contraceptive pills.
Copper bearing intrauterine devices.

How Does it Work?

EC pills do not induce an abortion, it acts as a preventative for pregnancy by preventing or delaying ovulation. Copper IUDs prevent fertilization via altering the sperm and egg before contact. If a fertilized egg implants to the uterus, EC will not terminate the already existing pregnancy.

Possible Side Effects

While uncommon, the side effects of EC pills are similar to oral contraceptives. They are typically mild and resolve without any medication.

Side effects can include:

Nausea
Vomiting
Minor irregular bleeding
Fatigue
Headache
Muscle ache

All individuals assigned female at birth (AFAB), even those who cannot use ongoing hormonal contraceptive methods, can safely use EC. They are used by AFAB people of any age, even adolescents.

References

Who.int. 2022. Emergency contraception. [online] Available at: <https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/emergency-contraception> [Accessed 29 July 2022].

Mayoclinic.org. 2022. Electroconvulsive therapy (ECT) – Mayo Clinic. [online] Available at: <https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/electroconvulsive-therapy/about/pac-20393894> [Accessed 29 July 2022].