How soon can I use emergency contraception?

Emergency contraception can prevent pregnancy if you’ve had sex without contraception or it failed, and it should be used within 3 to 5 days, the sooner the better. The options are the copper coil, fitted within 5 days, and two kinds of pill taken within 3 or 5 days. A pharmacy, doctor or sexual health clinic can help.

What are the emergency contraception options?

Copper coil (IUD). Fitted within 5 days (120 hours) after sex. The most effective option, more than 99%, and it can stay in as ongoing contraception. Needs an appointment.
Levonorgestrel pill. Taken within 3 days (72 hours) after sex.
Ulipristal acetate pill. Taken within 5 days (120 hours) after sex. It works better than levonorgestrel between 3 and 5 days.

The WHO notes the pills can be less effective for people with a BMI over 30. That’s worth mentioning to the pharmacist or doctor.

A pharmacy, doctor or sexual health clinic can help.

Frequently asked questions

Which emergency contraception works best?

The copper coil (IUD) is the most effective, at more than 99%, and it can stay in as ongoing contraception.

How long do the pills work for?

The levonorgestrel pill works within 3 days (72 hours) of sex. Ulipristal acetate works within 5 days (120 hours) and works better than levonorgestrel between 3 and 5 days.

Does weight affect emergency contraception?

The WHO notes the pills can be less effective for people with a BMI over 30. That’s worth mentioning to the pharmacist or doctor.

Sources

Seventh is a free period and cycle tracker for iPhone and iPad, by doogud. This article is general information, not medical advice. If something feels wrong, see a doctor.