Emergency
Contraceptive Pill

If you had sex without protection and are worried about pregnancy, you can use emergency contraception. The most effective emergency contraception is the Copper IUD, but the Emergency Contraceptive Pill
(also known as the “morning after pill”, “ECP”, or “Plan B”) can also help in many cases.

Overview

There are two types of emergency contraception – Copper IUD and Emergency Contraceptive Pill. This page provides information on the Emergency Contraceptive Pill (ECP). For information on the Copper IUD, click here.

The ECP can be effective in many situations if you have recently had unprotected sex.

The ECP is approved to be taken up to 3 days (72 hours) after sex. Ask your healthcare professional which is the best option for you.

Key Facts

How it Works

The ECP is taken after unprotected sex to prevent pregnancy. It can delay the release of an egg from your ovaries until the sperm are no longer active in your body any more.

It prevents the sperm from fertilising an egg by changing the way the sperm moves in your body. It doesn’t work once the egg has been fertilised. It doesn’t harm you or a developing embryo.

Pros

The ECP should not be taken as a regular contraception method. However it:

  • Can be up to 98% effective if taken within the agreed timeframes since you had unprotected sex.

  • Can be used up to 3 days after unprotected sex.

Cons

  • The ECP may not be suitable for you if you weigh more than 70kg or you may need to take a double dose.
  • Tell your doctor, nurse or pharmacist about any other medication you are taking as you may need extra ECPs or a copper IUD.
  • If you vomit within three hours of taking the ECP you’ll need to get another one.
  • A few people have mild side effects e.g. feel sick or vomit. You can take the ECP with food to lessen the chance you will feel sick.
  • There is a very small risk of an ectopic pregnancy (pregnancy outside the womb) if the ECP fails. This can occur with any pregnancy and can be dangerous. If you have cramping or bleeding, see a doctor or a nurse.
  • Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

FAQs

ECP can be prescribed by a pharmacist, doctor or approved nurse. It is available from most pharmacies in New Zealand from a pharmacist who will ask you relevant questions before dispensing ECP to you. There is most likely a charge for ECP from a health provider.

Most people can have the ECP. However, if you weigh over 70kg a Copper IUD might be the best option for you or you may need to double the dose of the ECP. Check with your local pharmacist, doctor or nurse to make sure you have the best option for you.

Healthcare professionals will ask you questions that will help them understand what is the best option for you to decide. It is important that you answer these questions as completely as possible:

  • A few questions about your medical and family history.
  • A few questions about when you had unprotected sex.

Yes, it is not harmful if you use it more than once. However, it is not recommended as an on-going form of contraception.

The Copper IUD can be used as a form of emergency contraception – this can be effective up to 5 days after unprotected sex. It could then be left in your uterus (womb) and be used as ongoing contraception for up to 10 years. To find out more, click here.

Non-Hormonal IUD – Copper

A non-hormonal (Copper) IUD is a small, T-shaped plastic device which contains copper. It is put into the uterus (womb). A Copper IUD does not contain hormones. The copper IUD can also be used as an Emergency Contraception.

LASTS FROM 5 TO 10 YEARS | PLACED IN THE UTERUS | EFFECTIVE IMMEDIATELY | EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION – UP TO 5 DAYS AFTER SEX

Hormonal IUD - Mirena | Jaydess

A Hormonal IUD is a small, T-shaped plastic device, which contains the hormone progestogen to control your fertility. The device is put into the uterus (womb).

HORMONES | LASTS FROM 3 TO 5 YEARS | PLACED IN THE UTERUS | EFFECTIVE IN 7 DAYS

Implant – Jadelle

Two small, flexible plastic rods that are placed just under the skin in the upper arm. The implant releases the hormone progestogen to control fertility.

HORMONES | LASTS UP TO 5 YEARS | PLACED IN THE ARM | EFFECTIVE IN 7 DAYS