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UNITED HEALTH CENTRE 2,ELLIOT ROAD, KOLKATA - 700016
UNITED HEALTH CENTRE 2,ELLIOT ROAD, KOLKATA - 700016
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In today’s fast-paced world, every woman deserves the right to make informed decisions about her reproductive health. One of the critical aspects of this autonomy is having access to reliable emergency contraception. Whether due to unprotected sex, contraceptive failure, or missed birth control pills, emergency contraception provides a safe and effective option to prevent unwanted pregnancy.
I’m Dr. Saima Javed, one of the best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, and in this blog, I aim to guide you through the types, effectiveness, safety, and right usage of the best emergency contraception available today.
Emergency contraception (EC) is a method used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. It is most effective when used as soon as possible after the incident, typically within 72 to 120 hours, depending on the method.
There are mainly two types:
Each has its own benefits, and choosing the best emergency contraception depends on your health, timing, and preferences.
These are the most widely used ECPs. Available over the counter in many pharmacies, they are most effective within 72 hours of unprotected sex.
This prescription-only pill is more effective than levonorgestrel, especially when taken within 120 hours of unprotected intercourse.
As one of the best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, I recommend Ulipristal for women who are closer to ovulation or are looking for a more potent form of emergency contraception.
This is the most effective emergency contraception available, with a success rate of over 99%.
Though slightly invasive, the copper IUD is an excellent choice for women looking for both emergency and long-term contraception. At my clinic in Kolkata, I often recommend this to patients who want a permanent or semi-permanent solution after an emergency.
As one of the best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, I advise that your choice should depend on:
The sooner you act, the better. Levonorgestrel pills should be taken within 72 hours, while Ulipristal and copper IUDs offer a wider window of 120 hours.
Studies suggest that Levonorgestrel may be less effective in women over 75 kg. In such cases, Ulipristal or an IUD may be the best emergency contraception.
Levonorgestrel is easily available, while Ulipristal may require a prescription. Copper IUD requires a clinical visit for insertion.
If you’re looking for ongoing protection, the copper IUD offers a dual advantage.
Fact: Emergency contraception prevents pregnancy; it does not terminate an existing one.
Fact: There is no long-term impact on fertility when used occasionally and correctly.
It can be used regularly
Fact: It is for emergencies only. Routine use may lead to side effects and irregular periods.
As one of the best lady gynecologist in Kolkata, I always educate my patients on using regular contraceptives for planned protection and EC only for unexpected situations.
Also Read: How to Research for the Best Lady Gynecologist in Kolkata?
While most women tolerate ECPs well, some may experience:
If your period is more than 7 days late, or if you experience severe abdominal pain or unusual bleeding, consult a gynecologist immediately. At my Kolkata clinic, we offer prompt consultations for such concerns and also help women find the best emergency contraception tailored to their unique needs.
Emergency contraception should not be used as a regular form of contraception. It is designed specifically for occasional, emergency situations such as unprotected sex, contraceptive failure, or sexual assault. Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) and the morning-after pill are less effective than most routine birth control methods when used repeatedly, and frequent use can lead to irregular menstrual cycles and higher hormone exposure.
Regular contraceptive methods-such as daily birth control pills, IUDs, implants, or injections much more effective and safer for ongoing pregnancy prevention. After using emergency contraception, women are advised to start or resume a regular contraceptive method for continued protection.
In summary, emergency contraception is intended for backup use only and not as a substitute for regular, long-term contraception
Emergency contraception works primarily by preventing or delaying ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary during the menstrual cycle. If ovulation is delayed, sperm cannot fertilize an egg, and pregnancy is prevented. This is how most emergency contraceptive pills, such as those containing levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate, function.
Emergency contraception does not interrupt an existing pregnancy or cause an abortion. If fertilization and implantation have already occurred, emergency contraceptive pills will not be effective.
For copper intrauterine devices (IUDs) used as emergency contraception, the mechanism is different. The copper IUD prevents pregnancy by creating an environment toxic to sperm and eggs, which prevents fertilization. It may also prevent implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus, making it the most effective form of emergency contraception.
Current research and major health organizations confirm that there are no known long-term health risks associated with using emergency contraception pills, such as levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate. Emergency contraception is considered safe, and its side effects are generally mild and temporary, including nausea, headache, fatigue, and occasional menstrual irregularities. These side effects typically resolve on their own and do not require further treatment.
Importantly, emergency contraception does not affect future fertility or delay the return to fertility after use. There is also no evidence to suggest that it causes any serious or lasting adverse health effects, even with repeated use.
However, frequent use of emergency contraception can lead to increased short-term side effects, such as irregular vaginal bleeding or changes in menstrual cycles, but this does not translate into long-term health risks. For ongoing contraception, more regular and effective methods are recommended, as emergency contraception is less effective than routine birth control and is not intended for regular use.
Frequent use of emergency contraception can increase the likelihood and intensity of certain side effects, though it does not cause long-term health risks. The most common side effects reported with repeated use include:
These side effects are generally mild and temporary, resolving on their own. However, with frequent use, menstrual irregularities and bleeding disturbances become more common. There are no known serious or long-term health risks from repeated use, but emergency contraception is less effective than regular contraceptive methods and is not intended for ongoing contraception. For regular pregnancy prevention, more reliable and consistent contraceptive options are recommended.
Emergency contraception, particularly levonorgestrel-based pills like Plan B, can cause noticeable but temporary changes in menstrual bleeding patterns for many women. Common effects include:
Current scientific evidence and guidance from major health organizations confirm that emergency contraception does not cause any long-term changes in fertility. Emergency contraceptive pills, such as levonorgestrel and ulipristal acetate, as well as the copper IUD, work by temporarily preventing or delaying ovulation or fertilization, but they do not have any lasting effects on a woman’s ability to conceive in the future.
After using emergency contraception, fertility returns to normal quickly, and there is no delay in the return to fertility. Even with repeated use, studies have found no link between emergency contraception and future infertility or difficulty conceiving. While some women may experience temporary menstrual irregularities after taking emergency contraception, these changes are short-lived and do not impact long-term reproductive health.
In summary, emergency contraception is a safe option for preventing unintended pregnancy and does not cause permanent changes to fertility or future pregnancy potential.
You can safely use emergency contraception, such as the morning-after pill (levonorgestrel-based pills like Plan B), as many times as needed-there is no medical limit to the number of times you can take it in your lifetime. Emergency contraception does not cause long-term health risks or affect your future fertility, even with repeated use.
However, frequent use is not recommended as a regular method of birth control. This is because:
If you find yourself needing emergency contraception repeatedly, it’s a good idea to consult a healthcare provider about starting a more reliable and regular form of birth control.
The best emergency contraception depends on timing and personal factors. Copper IUDs are the most effective, followed by Ulipristal acetate and then Levonorgestrel pills.
It’s most effective when taken as early as possible. Levonorgestrel works best within 72 hours, while Ulipristal and Copper IUDs are effective up to 5 days (120 hours).
No, emergency contraception is meant for occasional use. Frequent use may lead to menstrual irregularities. Consult one of the best lady gynecologist in Kolkata for long-term options.
Most healthy women can safely use emergency contraception, but those with certain medical conditions should consult a doctor to choose the best emergency contraception for their needs.
No, emergency contraception does not have long-term effects on fertility when used correctly and occasionally.
Choosing the best emergency contraception is about acting quickly, wisely, and responsibly. With the right information and medical guidance, women can take control of their reproductive health without fear or confusion.
If you’re ever unsure or need support in selecting the right method, don’t hesitate to consult one of the best lady gynecologist in Kolkata—Dr. Saima Javed. My clinic is always open to women seeking safe, confidential, and expert gynecological care.
