Key Facts about Emergency Contraceptive Pill

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, however new research shows it is just as effective up to four days after sex. Ask your healthcare professional which is the best option for you.

• The ECP can be up to 98% effective if taken within the indicated timeframes.
• You can access the ECP from most pharmacies in the Bay of Plenty as well as through your nurse or doctor. 
• If you are under 25, you can access ECP from most pharmacies in the Bay of Plenty for FREE. Find out where your nearest pharmacy is located by visiting this website.
• It does not protect you from STIs.

The ECP is not as effective if you weigh more than 70kg and in this situation, the Copper IUD is recommended. If you decide you want to take the ECP, you should take a double dose – two ECPs together.

How it works

It can delay the release of an egg from your ovaries until the sperm are no longer active in your body any more.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.

Pros & cons

• ECPs can be up to 98% effective.
• ECP is not as effective if you weigh more than 70kg – a Copper IUD is your best option.
• It does not protect you from STIs.
• 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 nurse.

Where to get it

ECPs can be given by most pharmacists across the Bay of Plenty along with a range of other services. Click here to find your nearest service.

*See Terms & Conditions.

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It can delay the release of an egg from your ovaries until the sperm are no longer active in your body any more.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, with new research indicating it can work up to 4 days after unprotected sex, depending on your weight.

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).

Where to get the ECP?

ECP can be prescribed by a pharmacist, doctor or approved nurse. It is available FREE from most pharmacies in the Bay of Plenty for under 25 year olds – you do not need to make an appointment or see a doctor or a nurse. You can find out more on the BOPCPG website.

You can also get the ECP from your doctor or nurse at a range of service providers.

Who can have the ECP?

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. 

What will they ask me when I get the ECP?

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.

Can the ECP be taken more than once?

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

I thought ECP was my only option – what is a Copper IUD?

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.