‘The last time I had sex with my boyfriend, the condom got stuck in my vagina after ejaculation. We rushed to the pharmacy and I took the morning after pill one hour later. It was the first time this has ever happened to me! I’ve been freaking out ever since: can I be 100% certain that I’m not pregnant? ’
Anonymous, 21
What the expert says:
The morning after pill is an oral emergency contraceptive, and you made the right decision to take it as soon as you did in order to avoid an unplanned pregnancy. Emergency oral contraception is based on the principle of delaying or preventing ovulation. The treatment consists of choosing the emergency contraceptive tablet that you want to use, and taking it as indicated, as soon as possible after unprotected sex. Bear in mind that its effectiveness decreases the later you take it. You have two options for the morning after pill: the Levonorgestrel-based pill that you can take up to 3 days (72 hours) after unprotected sex. The other morning after pill contains ulipristal acetate molecule. This is an oral emergency contraceptive that can be taken up to five days (or 120 hours) after engaging in unprotected sex. They both work by preventing or delaying ovulation, which will prevent the egg from getting fertilized by the sperm and therefore, avoid the risk of falling pregnant. Again, bear in mind that it is recommended to take the emergency contraceptive as soon as possible.
It’s worth mentioning that morning after pill doesn’t replace regular contraception. It is based on the principle of delaying or preventing ovulation during the lifespan of the sperm. It is a back-up method.
It’s completely normal to feel nervous or stressed after taking the morning-after pill. Keep an eye out for the following symptoms, such as your period is more than seven days late, if it is heavier or lighter than usual, if you have tender breasts or if you suffer from nausea or abdominal pain. If you’re experiencing these symptoms, it’s advised that you take a pregnancy test. If it’s negative, you should consider a method of regular contraception that will provide effective protection throughout your menstrual cycle. If positive, it’s recommended that you make an appointment with your doctor or at your health clinic to discuss your options. Professionals are there to help figure out the best course of action going forward. Just know that you’re not alone.
