July 17, 2023

Morning After Pill Myths and Facts: Debunking Misconceptions about Emergency Contraception

Get The Morning After Pill in Colchester

Are you looking to get the morning after pill in Colchester? Unplanned or unprotected sexual encounters can happen to anyone, and in such situations, having access to reliable contraception becomes crucial. The morning after pill, also known as emergency contraception, offers a solution to prevent unintended pregnancies when used within a specific timeframe after unprotected sex. In this blog, we will explore the effectiveness of the morning after pill and the myths that exist around it, providing you with the expert advice that you need to make an informed decision about your reproductive health.

Understanding Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception refers to methods used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse, contraceptive failure, or sexual assault. While several methods exist, the morning after pill is one of the most commonly used options. It is a type of oral contraceptive designed to be taken shortly after intercourse, typically within 72 hours, but some formulations may be effective up to 120 hours (five days) after unprotected sex.

emergency contraception

How Does It Work?

The morning after pill contains one or two active ingredients, either levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate. Levonorgestrel is a synthetic hormone that inhibits or delays ovulation, preventing the release of an egg from the ovary. Additionally, it can thicken cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. Ulipristal acetate, on the other hand, works by blocking the effects of progesterone, which is necessary for ovulation to occur.

E is for Effectiveness

The effectiveness of the morning after pill largely depends on how soon it is taken after unprotected sex. When used within 24 hours, it has been found to prevent approximately 95% of expected pregnancies. As time passes, its effectiveness gradually decreases. However, even when taken within the recommended 72-hour window, it still offers a reasonable level of effectiveness, preventing around 85% of pregnancies. It is important to note that the morning after pill is not 100% effective and should not be relied upon as a regular form of contraception.

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Morning After Pill Myths Busted

Myth: The morning after pill is the same as the abortion pill.
Fact: The morning after pill and the abortion pill are two different medications with distinct purposes. The morning after pill is used for emergency contraception to prevent pregnancy, while the abortion pill is used to terminate an existing pregnancy. The morning after pill works by preventing fertilisation or ovulation, while the abortion pill induces a miscarriage in early pregnancies.

Myth: The morning after pill is only effective the morning after.
Fact: Contrary to its name, the morning after pill can be effective up to 72 hours (or even up to 120 hours, depending on the specific type) after unprotected intercourse. However, it is most effective when taken as soon as possible after the incident. The effectiveness gradually decreases as time passes, so it is crucial to take it as early as possible.

Myth: The morning after pill is 100% effective.
Fact: While the morning after pill is highly effective, it is not 100% foolproof. The effectiveness of emergency contraception depends on various factors, such as the timing of its administration and individual characteristics. When taken within 24 hours after unprotected sex, it can prevent approximately 95% of expected pregnancies. However, its effectiveness decreases over time, and it may prevent around 85% of pregnancies when taken within 72 hours. Please note that the morning after pill DOES NOT protect you against STI’s. Further guidance can be found on the NHS Website.

Myth: The morning after pill causes infertility.
Fact: There is no evidence to suggest that the morning after pill causes infertility. Emergency contraception is designed to be a temporary method and does not have long-term effects on fertility. It does not alter the chances of becoming pregnant in the future, nor does it increase the risk of infertility.

Myth: Taking the morning after pill regularly is safe and effective as a primary form of contraception.
Fact: The morning after pill should not be used as a regular form of contraception. It is intended for emergency use only and is not as effective or reliable as other contraceptive methods, such as daily birth control pills or long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs). Regular and consistent use of appropriate contraceptive methods is essential for ongoing pregnancy prevention.

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