themorningafterpill
The morning after pill is a strong dose of progestogen hormone, which is only meant for emergencies. It can be taken after unprotected sex (at an unsafe moment of the cycle) to prevent pregnancy.
It consists of two tablets, which can be bought from pharmacies and drugstores or from a doctor or clinic. The morning after pill should not be used to replace contraception, and should not be used unless there is a good reason for it.
Effectivity of the morning after pill
The morning after pill is most effective if the tablets are taken the next morning after unprotected and unsafe sex. But they are still very effective if taken within three days (72 hours), and even show good results after four or five days.
How does the morning after pill work?
The morning after pill works like the normal pill:
- it prevents or delays ovulation
- it prevents a fertilised egg from settling in the uterus
Disadvantages of the morning after pill
Some women experience headaches, breast tenderness and abdominal pain. A few women will feel sick or vomit. If you vomit within three hours of taking the pills, you can take new ones as well as medication to avoid vomiting. Do not forget to take the second pill on time.
How will the morning after pill affect my period?
You may experience some irregular bleeding between taking the morning after pill and getting your next period. Your period may come earlier than expected or it may be up to a week late.