Emergency Contraception

“Forms of contraception that are effective if administered within a specified period after sexual intercourse”

Hormonal

• Levonorgestrel
  • The higher dose of progestin to normal contraception
  • Prevents LH surge and suppresses follicular rupture
  • Affects corpus luteum function
  • E.g. Levonelle in first 72hrs
    • Consider weight BMI>26 less effective
    • C/I with epileptic medication/ liver enzyme inducers
  • E.g. ulipristal
    • Selective progesterone receptor modulator – anti-progesterone
    • Delays follicular development and rupture by suppressing oestrogen
    • Endometrium hostile to fertilised egg
  • E.g. Ellaone up to 120hrs
    • Inhibits/delays ovulation
    • C/I with liver enzyme inducers, drugs that increase gastric pH

Non-Hormonal

• Copper IUD can be used 3-5days post-coital
  • Prevents fertilisation and implantation