Emergency Contraception: Quick Facts & How to Use It

Got an unexpected situation and need a backup plan? Emergency contraception (EC) is the safety net you reach for when regular birth control slips or you forget a pill. It’s not an abortion method—EC stops a fertilized egg from implanting, so it works before pregnancy starts. The good news? You can get it over the counter or prescription, and it’s most effective the sooner you take it.

Types of Emergency Contraception

There are two main ways to prevent pregnancy after sex: hormone pills and a copper IUD. The pill options come in two doses. The one‑pill version (often called Plan B or levonorgestrel) works best within 72 hours but still offers some protection up to five days. The two‑pill version (Ulipristal acetate, brand name Ella) stays effective for up to 120 hours and is a bit stronger, so it’s a solid choice if you’re close to the five‑day mark.

The copper IUD is the most effective EC method—over 99% when inserted within five days of intercourse. It also provides ongoing birth control for up to ten years. A trained clinician places it, and you’ll feel a small string in your cervix afterward, which is normal.

How to Get It Safely

If you’re in the UK, you can walk into most pharmacies for the levonorgestrel pill without a prescription. Just ask for the “morning after pill” and show a photo ID. For ulipristal, you’ll need a prescription, but many online pharmacies and NHS services can email it to you quickly.

Getting a copper IUD requires a short GP or clinic visit. Bring any recent pregnancy test results—clinics need to confirm you’re not already pregnant before insertion. The procedure is quick, similar to getting a regular IUD, and you’ll get after‑care instructions on what to watch for.

Watch out for side effects: mild nausea, headache, or a short period of spotting are normal. If you vomit within two hours of taking a pill, call a pharmacist—they may suggest a second dose. With the IUD, you might have cramping for a day or two, but that should ease quickly.

Remember, EC isn’t a regular birth‑control method. It’s a backup for emergencies only. For everyday protection, consider a daily pill, implant, or a regular IUD. Those options are more reliable and don’t carry the same timing pressure.

Bottom line: act fast, pick the method that fits your timeline, and don’t hesitate to ask a pharmacist or doctor any questions. Emergency contraception is safe, widely available, and designed to give you peace of mind when you need it most.