The morning after pill is taken after having unprotected sex. Other reasons people take the morning after pill are; the condom splits, they are taking a course of antibiotics or they are suffering a sickness bug. Antibiotics render the contraceptive pill ineffective and vomiting can prevent the pill from working. If you have encountered any of these issues and don’t wish to become pregnant then you have two options; either have a coil fitted (It stops the egg from settling in the womb) or you can take the morning after pill. The latter is much easier to obtain, but neither are 100% effective but the morning after pill has a high success rate.
Types Of Morning After Pill
Fortunately the morning after pill doesn’t have to be taken the morning after but it is more effective if it is. There are two types of morning after pill available; one that can be taken up to three days and one that can be taken up to five days after unprotected sex. You can purchase the morning after pill from chemists without having to consult your doctor. You will be asked some health related questions to ensure that the morning after pill is suitable for you.
How It Works
First of all the morning after pill is not the same as the abortion pill because it prevents pregnancy as opposed to ending it. The morning after pill works pretty much in the same way as the traditional contraceptive pill taken daily. It contains hormones that prevent ovulation and therefore conception can’t take place. The morning after pill does not prevent you from catching sexually transmitted diseases (STIs) so if you suspect you may have one you need to visit your GP or Gum clinic. If you vomit within two hours of taking the morning after pill you will need to take another one.
Possible Side Effects
Generally the morning after pill doesn’t cause any side effects, side effects that have been reported include:-
* Sickness
* Dizziness
* Tiredness
* Headache
* Tender breasts
* Abdominal pain
* Your period may be later than expected
Who Can Use The Morning After Pill?
The morning after pill can be taken by most women including those who are unable to take regular contraceptive pills. Girls under the age of 16 are also able to take the morning after pill. If you are breast feeding then there is a pill that can be taken. If you normally take the contraceptive pill take the pill as usual but use an alternative form of contraception for a week. If you suffer any unusual side effects after taking emergency contraception please make an appointment with your doctor.
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