There are two main types of emergency contraceptive pill (also known as the "morning after pill"):

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• The emergency contraceptive pill which contains levonorgestrel.

• The emergency contraceptive pill which contains ulipristal acetate.

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Ulipristal Acetate Pill

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How does it work?

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Ulipristal acetate works by preventing the hormone progesterone from working properly.It can also stop or delay ovulation.

This is when an egg is released from the ovaries.

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When should it be taken?

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The ulipristal acetate pill should be taken within 5 days (120 hours) of having unprotected sex. You will only need to take 1 pill.

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Who can use it?

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Most women can use the ulipristal acetate pill but you should seek advice from your doctor before taking it especially if you have asthma and if you are taking certain medications*.

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Disadvantages

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The disadvantages of the ulipristal acetate pill include:

 

• It may not work if you vomit within 3 hours of taking it

• It may not work if you continue to have unprotected sex.

• There are also side effects such as headaches, nausea, vomiting, changes to your next period (pain, delay) and abdominal pain.

• Please see your doctor if your side effects are severe or they last longer than a few days.

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Levonorgestrel Pill

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How does it work?

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Levonorgestrel is similar to the hormone progesterone.

It works by stopping or delaying ovulation.

This is when an egg is released from the ovaries.

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How often do you have to take it?

The levonorgestrel pill should be be taken within 3 days (72 hours) of having unprotected sex. You will only need to take 1 pill.

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Disadvantages

The disadvantages of the levonorgestrel pill include:

 

• It may not work if you vomit within 3 hours of taking it or if you continue to have unprotected sex.

• There are also side effects such as headaches, nausea, vomiting, changes to your next period (pain, delay) and abdominal pain.

• Please see your doctor if your side effects are severe or they last longer than a few days.

 

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Who can use it?

Most women can use the levonorgestrel pill but you should seek advice from your doctor before taking it especially if you have a high or low BMI and if you are taking certain medications*.

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*This is not an extensive list. Please see your doctor for further advice.