The emergency pill
1. What is the emergency pill used for?
The emergency pill, sometimes called the ‘morning-after pill’, is an emergency contraceptive method designed to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure (broken condom, missed pill, etc.).
2. How does it work?
- This pill delays ovulation. It is important to know that spermatozoa can survive for up to 5 days while waiting for ovulation.
- Take it as soon as possible after intercourse, ideally within 12 hours.
- If you vomit within 3 hours, another tablet should be taken.
3. What type of pill should I choose?
- Levonorgestrel: to be taken within 3 days (72 hours after unprotected intercourse).
- Ulipristal acetate (EllaOne): to be taken within 5 days (120 hours after unprotected intercourse).
4. What to do after taking it?
- Use condoms until your period returns.
- Consult a doctor if you have any doubts or unusual symptoms.
- Take a pregnancy test if your period is more than 7 days late.
5. Where to get the emergency pill?
- In pharmacies: Without prescription and FREE of charge (excluding weekend or public holiday surcharges).
- At Planning Familial: Without prescription and FREE, Monday to Friday, during opening hours.
6. Possible side effects
- Nausea
- Abdominal pain
- Light bleeding
7. Is it abortive?
NO. It prevents fertilisation, but does not terminate an existing pregnancy.
8. Can it be used regularly?
No, it is intended for occasional use, and it is preferable to have a regular method of contraception for continuous protection.
Still have doubts?
- If you have had unprotected sex or your contraceptive method has failed (such as a condom breaking)...
Choose the levonorgestrel morning-after pill (available in pharmacies or in Planning Familial).
Please note: If you have allergies or health problems that prevent you from using hormonal contraceptives, or if you want to use a different method, you should consult a doctor about getting an intrauterine device (IUD).
Choose the morning-after pill containing ulipristal acetate (EllaONE©) (available in pharmacies or in Planning Familial).
Please note: If you have allergies or health problems that prevent you from using hormonal contraceptives, or if you want to use a different method, you should consult a doctor about getting an intrauterine device (IUD).
- Or if you have forgotten to take a contraceptive pill...
You are still protected. Take the missed pill as soon as possible and continue taking them as usual.
If in doubt: Do not hesitate to take a pregnancy test after two weeks (available free of charge at the Planning Familial Center).
Take a pill as soon as possible and continue taking them as usual. Also use another form of contraception (such as a condom) for 7 days.
If in doubt: Do not hesitate to take a pregnancy test after two weeks (available free of charge at the Planning Familial Center).
⚠️ You are no longer protected!!! Consult a healthcare professional to discuss emergency contraception or other options.