This article examines the issue of emergency contraception. She is also called "firefighter" or radical. What types and methods exist, how to use them, pros and cons, as well as cases when it is worth using emergency contraception.

Emergency contraception is used if:

• happened unprotected sexual intercourse, you did not use protection at all
• your usual method of contraception Not worked, for example, the condom broke
• You forgot take a birth control pill

Emergency contraception drugs are called “firefighters” because they are used in exceptional cases. An analogy can be made with calling an ambulance.

We'll talk about two types radical contraception:

• tablet (they are also called “The Morning After Pill” or the morning after pill)
• intrauterine device

The most important information can be gleaned from tables below. Further in the text, each of the points in the table is discussed in more detail:

What you need to know about emergency contraception

• You need to remember the golden rule: than earlier If you take the pill, you will have a better chance of getting pregnant less.
• The intrauterine device is considered more efficient tablets. According to statistics, less than 1% of women became pregnant after using the IUD. The statistics for tablets are much worse.
• Side effects phenomena of emergency contraceptive pills: nausea, increased fatigue and excitability, dizziness, pain in the mammary glands and lower abdomen.
• Your menstrual cycle will be unstable.
• If within 2 hours after taking the pill you vomit, you should take another pill because the effect of the first one may wear off and your chance of getting pregnant will increase.
• The intrauterine device can be yours regular method of contraception, and not just emergency.
• It is worth knowing that frequent use of an intrauterine device will lead to longer, heavier and more painful periods.
• The process of inserting the IUD may be slightly painful, so you can take a painkiller tablet.
• Despite the presence of side effects from the use of “fire” contraception, this method is considered more “beneficial” and humane for health than any other type. abortion.
• If you have calculated your “safe” days, and unprotected sexual intercourse occurred precisely on these days, with a small degree of risk, you can not take the pills. Since emergency contraception methods are a strong blow to a woman’s body.

Tablets Postinor, Escapelle, Levonel

These tablets contain an artificial analogue of the hormone progesterone.

When the hormone progesterone is found in natural quantities, it prepares the uterus to receive a fertilized egg, that is, it plays a direct role in the onset of pregnancy.

An increased level of this hormone in a woman’s body changes the structure of the uterine mucosa and changes the course of follicle maturation. The pregnancy process is blocked. The hormone interferes with the process ovulation(release of the egg).

And even if ovulation has occurred, the uterine lining changes so much that a fertilized egg cannot attach to its wall.

How to use

Postinor, Escapelle, Levonel should be taken no later than 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse.

That is, for example, if sexual intercourse occurred at 10 pm on May 10, then the pills (Postinor, Escapelle, Levonel) must be taken strictly before 12 noon on May 14.

In the case of Escapelle and Levonel, it is enough to take one tablet.

In the case of Postinor, first one tablet is taken, then after 12 (not later than 16) hours the second one is taken.

Contraindications for use

The drugs Postinor, Escapelle, Levonel have practically no contraindications, except for individual intolerance.

We recommend that you see your doctor before taking any of the above tablets. Your doctor can advise you on the tablets that are right for you and the recommended dosage. These tablets can already be used for 21 the day after childbirth and after miscarriages and abortions.

Side effects

There are virtually no mid- or long-term side effects from taking emergency contraceptive pills.

• Some women feel nausea, fatigue or, conversely, increased excitability, headache, pain in the lower abdomen and mammary glands.
• A small percentage experience vomiting.

In this case, the effect of the tablet may decrease, so it is better to take another one.

• Your menstrual cycle will be disrupted, but then it will recover again.

All of these side effects usually go away within a few days.

How will it affect your next menstruation?

After taking radical contraceptive pills, your period may come either earlier or later than expected.

Sometimes you may experience some bleeding between periods.

Do I need to go to the doctor?

You need to see a doctor if:

• you are more than 7 days late
• your next period is shorter and less heavy than usual
• you are experiencing pain in the lower abdomen
• these could be signs of an ectopic pregnancy (this is a very rare case, but you need to take action as quickly as possible)
• you are concerned that you may have contracted a sexually transmitted disease

Is it possible to get pregnant after Postinor, Escapel, Levonel?

Some women still get pregnant, even if they took the pills as directed.

These are quite rare cases. If you decide to keep your child, his health will not be at risk after taking the pills.

Basically, pregnancy occurs if:

• the pills were taken 72 hours after unprotected intercourse
• if vomiting occurs within 2 hours after taking the pills

There are rough statistics showing that emergency contraceptive pills prevented:

• 95% of pregnancies when taken within 24 hours of unprotected sex;
• 85% of pregnancies when taken within 25-48 hours;
• 58% of pregnancies when delivered within 49-72 hours

“Firefighter” contraceptive pills take about 2 hours to be completely absorbed in a woman’s body. Vomiting after 3 hours will not affect the contraceptive effect of the pills.

It is better to be observed by a doctor during the entire process. In this case, your doctor will be able to recommend an additional method of contraception.

Emergency contraception together with regular contraception

After taking Postinor, Escapel, Levonel for 12 hours, use your regular contraceptive:

• have a drink contraceptive tablet
• vaginal ring
• contraceptive patch

In addition, for several days you need to use an additional means of contraception - a condom:

• during 7 days if you use patch, ring or combination tablets
• during 2 days if yours contraceptives tablets are based on the hormone progesterone

If you are breastfeeding, taking emergency contraceptive pills is safe for your baby's health.

ellaOne tablets (ellaOn)

Recently, the drug ellaOne appeared on the market, which can be taken within 120 hours after unprotected intercourse (that's 5 days).

ellaOne tablets contain Ulipristal Acetate.

The principle of operation of all oral contraceptives is to delay or prevent ovulation, the release of a mature egg, which, when it meets a sperm, will lead to pregnancy.

Who can accept

Almost all women can take ellaOne tablets. Among the contraindications:

• asthma
• liver disease
• pregnancy

You should also refrain from breastfeeding for one week.

Side effects

They are the same as with other emergency contraceptive pills.

Within a few days after taking the pill you may feel:

• pain in the lower back or lower abdomen
• more painful periods
• frequent mood changes

Do you need a doctor?

Be sure to consult a doctor if:

• there was a delay in menstruation by more than 7 days
• periods are not as heavy as usual
• they are accompanied by pain, which was not there before
• you want to make sure you haven't contracted any sexually transmitted diseases

Could ellaOne not work?

In rare cases, as with other radical contraceptive pills, ellaOne may not work and pregnancy will occur.

In this case, you will need to consult a doctor.

The contraceptive effect of ellaOne may be reduced if you vomit within 3 hours of taking the pill. Contact your doctor immediately (he may advise you to take another pill, or use by another means emergency contraception).

If you vomit after 3.5 hours or more, the contraceptive properties of the pill are completely preserved.

There is a general rule for taking all medications: don’t delay. The sooner you take the pill, the greater the chance that its contraceptive properties will work 100%.

ellaOne and contraception

If you have missed taking your regular contraceptives, within 12 hours of taking ellaOne tablet you should:

• take your regular contraceptive tablet or
• insert vaginal ring
• use contraception bandage

You will definitely need to use an additional contraceptive - a condom:

• for 14 days if you are using the ring, patch, and combined birth control pills
• within 9 days if you are using hormonal birth control

Effect on next menstruation

As a rule, they arrive on time. But there are times when the cycle is disrupted for several days.

Intrauterine (contraceptive) device

This emergency contraception can be used for 5 days after unprotected sex or during 5 days after ovulation. The spiral will not allow the egg to be fertilized and settle in the uterus.

It is important to know that after unprotected sexual intercourse, you need to get tested for sexually transmitted diseases, because no method will protect you from these diseases.

The intrauterine (contraceptive) device can be used both as a means of contraception and as a regular contraceptive means.

Is it a spiral?

The intrauterine device, or contraceptive device, is made of plastic and copper and is T-shaped. It is inserted into the vagina.

After unprotected sexual intercourse, it can easily be used as a method of emergency contraception. The main thing is to introduce it within 5 days after unprotected sex.

The introduction of the spiral lasts about 15-20 minutes.

Pain may occur during insertion. In this case, ask your doctor to give you pain medication.

Who is the spiral suitable for?

Suitable for almost all women, but there are a number of contraindications.

The contraceptive device can be used even after miscarriages and abortions.

Before installation, it is better to consult a doctor, perhaps if you have an infection, you need to take antibiotics.

Side effects

For a few days after installation, you may experience discomfort in your lower abdomen (similar to a painful period).

In this case, you need to take painkillers.

There is a small chance that within 20 days After installation you will catch some kind of infection.

The coil may sometimes move or fall out. In this case, you need to consult a doctor and put it in place.

How will the IUD affect my next period?

Your period may become heavier and more painful, but it usually comes on time.

How often should you go to the doctor?

After the spiral is installed, it is advisable to go to the doctor through 3-4 weeks, to:

• make sure you are not pregnant
• make sure the IUD is seated correctly (if you want to continue using the IUD as a regular contraceptive)
• remove the IUD (if your goal was only emergency contraception)

When is the coil usually removed?

If you use it only as a “fire” contraception, you can remove it during your next period.

How reliable is the spiral?

The intrauterine device is one of the most reliable means of both regular and emergency contraception.

IN 99 % case, it protects against unwanted pregnancy.

Periodically feel the tendrils from the spiral in the vagina. If you do not feel them, there is a possibility that the device has moved and its contraceptive properties have weakened.

You should not feel the presence of a spiral in your body. If for any reason you feel it, consult your doctor. And use an additional means of contraception, for example, a condom, until you figure out the problem.

The IUD and other methods of contraception

As already mentioned, the intrauterine device is itself one of contraceptive methods, in addition to emergency.

If your regular method of contraception is contraceptives tablets, after the spiral is removed, you can continue to take them.

How much will emergency contraception cost you?

Emergency contraception is not cheap.

Postinor, for example, is the cheapest of all means - about 300 rubles.

Escapelle, Levonel are a little more expensive (about 350 rubles).

The drug ellaOne is already 10 times more expensive ( 3390 rubles), because it is more gentle, modern and can be used within 5 days after unprotected sex.

Intrauterine device can be used as a regular means of contraception for a long time, so its cost does not fall below 3500 rubles and comes to 7000 rubles.

From the article you learned about all the methods of emergency (fire, radical) contraception: pills and intrauterine device. Your doctor will tell you which remedy is right for you.

Unprotected sex can happen... to every woman. This is known to lead to inappropriate pregnancy, which can be a real misery for both partners. What contraceptive pills can be used after intercourse for 72 hours?

Emergency contraception

“SOS” products contain a “horse” portion of a synthetic female hormone - gestagen, which suppresses ovulation by acting on the part of the brain (anterior pituitary gland) responsible for stimulating the development of the dominant follicle in the ovary and the maturation of the female germ cell in it. In addition, the synthetic hormone significantly thickens the cervical mucus, so sperm will not be able to penetrate the uterine cavity.

If conception does occur, then the fertilized egg faces another disastrous obstacle. Emergency contraception regresses the endometrial layer, thereby creating unfavorable conditions for the attachment of the zygote to the uterine lining, which is an important condition for the existence of the fertilized egg.

How to take pills in case of unprotected sex

It is recommended to take birth control pills within 72 hours after sexual intercourse. Emergency medications often cause hormonal imbalances, so it is not recommended to use them more than once a quarter and in no case twice in one cycle. If vomiting occurs within four hours after taking a hormonal contraceptive, the woman must take a repeat dosage.

Despite the fact that the instructions indicate the use of birth control pills after intercourse for 72 hours, it is recommended to use hormonal contraception as early as possible. Ideally, this is best done immediately after an unprotected intimate relationship.

It should be remembered that birth control pills are taken after sex - their effectiveness during the first day is 85-95%, the second and third - 80%, the fourth - 65.

Today, pharmaceutical companies provide the pharmacy market with a wide range of modern products intended for emergency contraception. For your attention, there is a table with a brief description of the drugs.

For more information, see the section “ “

Every woman should first of all worry about her health, because if unprotected sex occurs, then she, and not her partner, will need to take the drug. However, even a prudent girl can find herself in an unforeseen situation, for example, if a condom breaks during a close relationship. There are also criminal cases - rape, which can also lead to fertilization of the egg.

In other words, emergency contraception should be considered as a last resort. Many women admit that they used them only in their youth. However, there are also girls who have never in their lives found themselves in situations where taking pills was absolutely necessary.

Emergency “prevention of pregnancy” is not suitable for everyone. There are certain contraindications that should be taken into account, since the pills may not work and even cause significant harm to health:

• Impaired hepatic and renal function;
• Taking coagulating drugs, the presence of physiological blood clotting disorders;
• Gestation period and lactation feeding;
• A decrease in iron-containing protein with a concomitant decrease in the number of red blood cells;
• History of ectopic pregnancy;
• Violation of the production of hormones by the adrenal glands, thyroid gland, pituitary gland;
• Taking synthetic hormones (Dexamethasone, Prednisolone), as well as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs;
• Malignant tumors, especially affecting the female reproductive system (breast, ovarian, uterine cancer), benign neoplasms (mastopathy, fibroma, fibromyoma);
• Dysfunctions of the digestive system associated with absorption;
• Crohn's disease is a chronic inflammatory process that affects all parts of the digestive tract - from the oral cavity to the anus.

Before using the products, you need to consult a specialist!

Women of Balzac age should remember that they are taken with great caution, since by this age serious diseases of the reproductive system associated with hormonal imbalance are often diagnosed.

7 dangers of birth control pills 72 hours after intercourse

SOS drugs, even in the absence of contraindications, can cause side effects. Symptoms and conditions that in some cases develop as a result of taking the medication:

1. Pain in the mammary glands and their swelling;
2. Headache, dizziness, in rare cases – fainting;
3. Drawing pain above the pubis, as before menstruation;
4. Increased nervousness, rapid mood swings;
5. An allergic reaction, manifested in the form of focal redness of the skin and a small rash;
6. Nausea, pain in the epigastric space, vomiting;
7. Menstrual delay after birth control pills.

Sometimes complications affect reproductive function. Thus, a hormonal imbalance can cause a tubal pregnancy after taking birth control pills - a fertilized egg will not attach to the wall of the uterus, but will “take root” well in the fallopian tube (if there is a tendency to do so).

Also, regular (sometimes one-time) use of emergency contraception leads to serious and sometimes difficult to treat disturbances in the functioning of the organs of the reproductive system. This often causes infertility, miscarriages in the first trimester, and uterine bleeding.

Don't forget to visit the doctor

As mentioned above, emergency pills are not a panacea for an unplanned pregnancy, so a woman needs to visit a doctor in a few weeks to rule out possible conception. The gynecologist will also send you for an examination (especially if the patient has complaints after taking the pill), which consists of a visual examination on a gynecological chair, taking a smear for microflora, undergoing ultrasound diagnostics and donating blood to check the level of hormones of each phase.

If a woman has had sexual contact with an unfamiliar partner, the specialist will prescribe a series of tests to exclude diseases transmitted due to close sexual relations.

Many girls are interested in whether it is possible to get pregnant after stopping birth control pills? If we talk about drugs that “turn off” ovarian function (they are taken daily), then conception will occur when taking hormonal medications stops. When canceling “SOS” contraceptives, you should pay close attention to methods of contraception.

• Emergency medications do not protect against pregnancy during the cycle of their use if unprotected sexual contact occurs again a few days later.

Despite the fact that “urgent” contraceptives are freely available in pharmacies without a prescription, a girl should consult a doctor before deciding to use them. Each medication has a specific effect and hormonal intensity, therefore, depending on the woman’s age and her existing diseases, the gynecologist will individually prescribe the remedy that, in his opinion, will be the most effective.

Of course, if a woman is responsible for her health, she carefully considers the best way to protect herself from all the troubles associated with the intimate side of relationships. But it is impossible to foresee everything all the time. Life is multifaceted, and the surprises it sometimes presents are not always pleasant and predictable.

It happens that
– The condom breaks or slips off;
– Coitus interruptus is unsuccessful;
– Two or more oral contraceptive pills are missed;
– Unprotected sexual contact occurs (due to various circumstances).

In all these cases, the risk of becoming pregnant is quite high. However, there is no need to panic. You can also prevent unwanted pregnancy after sexual intercourse using so-called emergency or postcoital contraception.

This is a representative of the old generation of hormonal drugs. One tablet contains 0.75 mg of levonorgestrel (synthetic hormone). It must be applied in two stages. The first Postinor tablet should be taken within 72 hours after sexual intercourse, or preferably immediately after it. The next tablet is 12 hours after the first. The effectiveness of taking Postinor depends on how long after an unprotected act you took this drug:
94% - if the pill was taken within 24 hours after the act;
86% - if the pill was taken within 25-48 hours after the act;
57% - if the pill was taken within 49-72 hours after the act.

Side effects are common after taking it:
Feeling nauseous
Vomit
Diarrhea
Dizziness
Feeling broken
Headache
Painful and unpleasant sensations in the area of ​​the mammary glands and lower abdomen
Temperature increase

Contraindications to taking Postinor are:
Severe liver diseases (hepatitis (even previously suffered), cirrhosis).
Puberty

Postinor can only be used by women with a regular menstrual cycle.

It can be used for a maximum of 96 hours from the date of possible fertilization. Contains twice the amount of levonorgestrel (1.5 mg), so only one tablet is required. The risk of pregnancy averages 1.1%. Contraindications and side effects are the same as for Postinor.

Gynepristone or Agesta

However, according to the World Health Organization, the first choice method for emergency contraception should be drugs containing the anti-hormone mifepristone. Currently available in pharmacies are Ginepristone and Agesta. Their effectiveness is 98.8%. One tablet containing 10 mg of mifepristone should be taken no later than 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse.

Ginepristone (Agesta) will cause virtually no harm to your reproductive system, but even after taking it you may experience the following side effects:
Unpleasant sensations in the lower abdomen
Feeling weak
Headache attacks
Vomiting or nausea
Allergic rash
Increased body temperature
Failure of the menstrual cycle

Ginepristone (Agesta) should not be used for problems with the liver and kidneys, for changes and disturbances in hormonal levels, as well as for some other diseases.

Frequent use of Ginepristone (Agesta) reduces the effectiveness of its action.

It is necessary to use drugs intended for postcoital protection against pregnancy strictly in accordance with the instructions. This is done on an empty stomach (at least 2 hours must have passed since the last meal) and do not eat anything for 2 hours after the pills are taken.

If emergency contraception causes vomiting within three hours of use, the effectiveness of the drug is sharply reduced. An additional dose must be taken.

Remember that even after you have taken emergency contraceptive pills, after some time you need to contact your personal gynecologist:
To check whether you have unwanted infections - these drugs do not protect against diseases transmitted through sexual contact
To make sure that pregnancy has not yet occurred (this is especially true if your period is delayed for more than a week after taking the pills or if your menstrual flow is suspiciously scanty).
So that the doctor, after observing your menstrual cycle for some time, prescribes treatment, if necessary, to stimulate ovarian function.

Emergency (urgent) contraception is not so harmless: it can cause hormonal imbalance and dysfunction of the reproductive system. In addition, their use is less effective than the systematic use of conventional birth control pills or careful use of condoms.

But it’s better to take advantage of them than to take risks: the body will cope with the consequences of taking them quite quickly, and you will have to take care of a child born as a result of an unplanned pregnancy for the rest of your life.

What to do if the condom breaks?

So, if you suspect you might be pregnant, it's best to take the necessary steps.

1. Decide which drug you will use. It is better to opt for the drugs Ginepristone or Agesta. By the way, these drugs are cheaper than Postinor.

2. Go to the pharmacy as soon as possible. Better yet, use your phone and find out what is available and where. At the pharmacy, they may advise you in the old fashioned way about Escapelle and Postinor, and for Ginepristone or Agesta, require a doctor’s prescription. In any case, it makes sense to go to the gynecologist first. If Ginepristone or Agesta are basically not available, then buy Escapelle.

3. If you find yourself abroad, there may be similar drugs under other names. For example, instead of Postinor, you may find Plan B, Levonelle, NorLevo and others. And if you are not ready to communicate, say, in a Turkish pharmacy, then it is better to take emergency contraception with you.

4. If you find yourself on a camping trip or in some place where traces of civilization are barely visible, then it would be a good idea to take care of emergency contraception in advance. Otherwise, you should get hold of regular birth control pills by hook or by crook. Of course, they were not originally intended for such purposes, but in case of emergency they can be used, and quite successfully. They, like the drugs described above, must be taken the sooner the better (maximum period - 72 hours). They are used as Postinor in 2 doses (the second dose 12 hours after the first is taken). But the number of tablets in 1 dose, depending on the concentration and composition of hormones, may be different:
– Containing ethinyl estradiol (MARVELON, MINIZISTON, MICROGENON, FEMODEN, RIGEVIVIDONE): dose – 4 tablets;
– Containing ethinyl estradiol (NON-OVLON, BISECURIN, OVIDON, OVULEN, ANOVLAR): dose – 2 tablets;
– Mini-pills (MICROLUT, EXCLUTON, OVRET) contain the same active ingredient as Postinor, but in very small quantities, so the dose to achieve the effect must be “impact” - 20 tablets.

And now about some psychological aspects for the young and inexperienced.

1. Girls, finding themselves in such a situation, very often begin to worry greatly about their health. Believe me, this situation happens to many, and to some, 5-6 times during an active sexual life. Excessive nervousness will harm you more than any drug.

2. If you are still young and feel guilty about buying emergency contraception, then visit a pharmacy in another area that you will probably never visit again.

3. Of course, it is better to ask your partner to buy the pills, but, as a rule, young people are also embarrassed to do this. If your man unconditionally agrees to take the situation into his own hands, rest assured: you can count on him in the future. If not, act on your own, and you will sort out your relationship later: now you have a more urgent matter.

4. If you don’t feel the moral strength at all, call a friend as a “support group.” She may even agree to buy the drug for you, but you shouldn’t abuse this: in the end, it’s best to solve your problems yourself.

5. “Emergency” pills are relatively expensive, but this is not a reason to refuse to buy them. You can ask or borrow money
– Your partner (which is quite logical)
- At a friend's
- Mom’s, after all

For the last two, it is better to come up with a plausible excuse rather than name the true reason; however, this depends on the degree of closeness of your relationship.

If a woman is not planning a pregnancy, then birth control pills after intercourse for 72 hours will help avoid unwanted conception. This method of protection in medicine is called the method of postcoital, emergency contraception. It is applicable in cases where unprotected sexual intercourse occurs and the woman does not use other methods of birth control (IUD, oral contraceptives).

Emergency contraception and post-coital birth control pills

Emergency methods are used only when the main options for protecting against unwanted pregnancy have failed or unplanned sexual intercourse has occurred. In this case, birth control pills must be taken within the next 72 hours after unprotected intercourse. Moreover, the sooner the pill is taken, the higher the likelihood that conception will not occur.

Thus, taking emergency contraception within 24 hours after an unprotected act ensures an effectiveness of about 95%. When using a birth control pill within 48 hours, the chance of conception increases by 10 percent. If a woman takes the drug by the end of the third day, the result will be only 55-60%. That is, the effectiveness of emergency contraception decreases every day, so it is recommended to take the pill as early as possible (preferably within 24 hours after intercourse).

However, a woman should understand that taking such drugs on a regular basis is unacceptable, since the high concentration of hormones that form the basis of the drugs negatively affects not only reproductive function, but also the entire body as a whole. According to WHO recommendations, emergency contraceptives can be taken no more than 2-3 times a year.

At the same time, it is believed that the use of emergency contraception is the most gentle alternative to surgical termination of pregnancy (abortion). You just need to know how to properly take birth control pills after sexual intercourse and not abuse these medications.

When do women seek emergency help?

Indications for the use of emergency contraception are the following situations:

• unprotected sexual intercourse with an unfamiliar sexual partner;
• the barrier contraception method used turned out to be unreliable (for example, the condom broke, the IUD fell out);
• an oral contraceptive dose was missed;
• unprotected contact occurred as a result of sexual violence.

In some cases, the indication for taking emergency contraception is a course of treatment with drugs (antibiotics, diuretics) that reduce the effectiveness of permanent oral contraceptives prescribed to a woman by a doctor.

Contraindications

Despite the fact that modern emergency contraception is safer and more effective than birth control pills after the first generation, they cannot be called completely harmless. Experts warn that they should be taken no more than once every 3-6 months. More frequent use can cause various gynecological diseases, ectopic pregnancy and subsequent problems with conception. Such products have an impressive list of contraindications, which you need to familiarize yourself with before using them for the first time. Main restrictions on use:

• liver and kidney pathologies;
• age up to 16 years;
• varicose veins, venous insufficiency;
• thromboembolism;
• instability of the menstrual cycle;
• uterine bleeding;
• bleeding disorders;
• period of pregnancy and lactation;
• individual intolerance to the components of the drug;
• severe chronic diseases.

After taking emergency contraceptive pills, side effects may develop. The most common of them:

• nausea, vomiting;
• diarrhea;
• dizziness, headaches;
• painful swelling of the mammary glands;
• weakness, increased fatigue;
• pain in the lower abdomen, menstrual irregularities.

Uterine bleeding is also not uncommon, developing in 10% of women. It is not recommended to prescribe such drugs to women over 35 years of age (especially those who smoke). Such drugs contain huge doses of hormones that can easily provoke hormonal imbalance. Therefore, this type of protection should be used with extreme caution, and before using it, be sure to consult a doctor and clarify possible contraindications.

Mechanism of action

The principle of action of emergency drugs is based on the inhibition of conception at the initial stage and the impossibility of the development of a fertilized egg. Today there are 2 types of tablets:

1. drugs based on levonorgestrel (Eskinor F);
2. birth control pills after intercourse based on mifepristone (Miropriston, Mifegin, Zhenale).

In general, the effect of drugs with levonorgestrel is that the action of the active substance is aimed at blocking or delaying ovulation (the release of a mature egg from the ovary). Additionally, levonorgestrel changes the composition of cervical mucus, making it thicker and more viscous. Due to this, the process of sperm penetration into the uterus is significantly more difficult. In addition, if fertilization does occur, levonorgestrel prevents the implantation of the egg into the uterine mucosa due to structural changes in the endometrium.

The action of medications from the second group is largely similar. After intercourse, birth control pills based on mifepristone also inhibit ovulation and exhibit antigestagenic activity, that is, they block receptors that respond to the pregnancy hormone (progesterone). As a result, the endometrium of the uterus does not undergo the changes necessary for the successful implantation of a fertilized egg. In addition, the active substances accelerate the contractile activity of the uterus and promote the removal of unattached eggs from its cavity.

Which birth control pills are better, how to take them correctly, and which methods should be preferred as an emergency treatment after unprotected sexual intercourse? An overview of the most popular and in-demand drugs will help you answer these questions.

Birth control pills after intercourse for 72 hours

When using emergency contraception methods, it should be borne in mind that these are strong post-intercourse contraceptive pills with a high content of hormones, which cannot be used for the purpose of regular protection. For this purpose, there are oral contraceptives - birth control pills with a low dose of hormones that should be taken constantly. They have a slightly different mechanism of action aimed at suppressing ovulation.

Emergency contraceptive pills or “morning after pills” are quite effective in preventing unplanned pregnancy, but due to the huge dose of active substances they provoke hormonal imbalance. Therefore, the female body, after using such drugs, needs to be restored; it requires a certain time for reproductive functions to be fully restored. Today, a woman can purchase emergency medications at any pharmacy.

We list the names of birth control pills after intercourse that can protect against unplanned pregnancy:

• Postinor;
• Eskinor F;
• Mifetin;
• Mytholian;
• Genale;
• Ministison.

It is advisable to take these medications within 24 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse. In addition, in order to prevent conception, you can use combined oral contraceptives, which contain a large dose of female hormones - gestagen, levonorgestrel, progestogen or estrogen.

When using them, you must strictly follow the instructions and observe the indicated dosage, since the effect of such medications is aimed at rejecting the endometrium, which, if the dose is exceeded, can cause uterine bleeding. Of the drugs in this group, the following drugs are most in demand:

• Ovidon;
• Regevidon;
• Non-Ovlon;
• Silest;
• Regulon.

Let’s take a closer look at the most popular products and tell you how to use them.

Good and effective birth control pills after intercourse: list with names

Postinor

One of the most effective emergency contraceptive drugs that prevent ovulation and fertilization. This product has been present on the pharmaceutical market for decades. The basis of the drug is a synthetically created analogue of the hormone levonorgestrel, the content of which in Postinor is much higher than in regular birth control pills. So, the basis of each tablet is 0.75 mg of levonorgestrel + excipients.

It is recommended to take Postinor after meals (to reduce the gag reflex) with an interval of at least 12 hours. That is, the first tablet should be taken within 48 hours (maximum 72 hours) after unprotected intercourse, and the second tablet should be taken 12 hours after the first. The instructions for the drug note that if the drug is used correctly, its effectiveness reaches 95%.

However, the longer the time interval between sexual intercourse and taking the pill, the higher the likelihood of pregnancy. Thus, by the end of the third day, the effectiveness of Postinor decreases to 58%. You can take the pills at any stage of the menstrual cycle. If vomiting occurs within three hours after taking the drug, the Postinor tablet must be taken again.

Contraindications for use are conditions such as thrombosis, hypertension, bleeding disorders, liver and kidney diseases, cancer and cardiovascular pathologies, hypersensitivity to the drug, pregnancy and lactation.

Postinor should be prescribed with extreme caution for diseases of the biliary tract and inflammatory lesions of the bladder. Side effects include uterine bleeding, nausea, abdominal pain, migraine, menstrual irregularities, and allergic reactions. The cost of Postinor tablets (2 pieces per package) is from 350 rubles.

The basis of the drug is the same active ingredient - levonorgestrel, but unlike Postinor, its dosage is doubled. Each Escapel capsule contains 1.5 mg of active ingredient, so a single dose of the tablet within 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse is sufficient.

Contraindications and side effects for Escapel and Postinor are almost identical. In addition, Escapelle should not be used for jaundice (even if the woman has already had jaundice in the past) and Crohn's disease. This means of postcoital contraception can be used in any phase of the menstrual cycle. If after taking the drug an attack of vomiting or diarrhea occurs, the tablet should be repeated.

Taking these drugs (Escapela and Postinora) does not affect the fetus. That is, if you took the drug unknowingly when you were already pregnant, there is no need to have an abortion. These contraceptives do not have a negative impact on the development and formation of the child. Price Escapella (1 piece) - from 300 rubles.

A contraceptive based on the active substance mifepristone, which blocks the effect of the pregnancy hormone (progesterone). This is a steroidal antigestagenic drug that is effective within 72 hours after sexual intercourse. To achieve maximum contraceptive effect, you must refrain from eating 2 hours before taking Gynepristone tablets and not eat for another 2 hours after taking the drug.

Contraindications to the use of contraceptives are acute and chronic renal and hepatic failure, long-term use of glucocorticosteroids, blood clotting disorders, cardiovascular pathologies, hypertension, and hypersensitivity.

Side effects may include systemic reactions from the digestive and nervous systems, allergies, as well as disruption of the menstrual cycle and the appearance of bloody discharge from the genital tract. The price of the drug (1 piece) is from 180 rubles.

This drug differs from other post-coital contraceptive pills in that it can be used for medical abortion. This means that, like other drugs, a Mifepristone tablet can be taken within 3 days after unprotected intercourse, or used to terminate an ongoing pregnancy, the duration of which does not exceed 6 weeks.

The action of the drug is based on blocking progesterone receptors and increasing uterine tone. 1 tablet of Mifepristone contains 200 mg of the active substance of the same name + auxiliary components. Each package of the drug contains 3 or 6 pieces of light yellow tablets. This remedy has an extensive list of contraindications and side effects, so it should be taken after consultation with your doctor.

Termination of pregnancy in the early stages should be carried out in a medical institution under the supervision of doctors. To do this, a woman should take three tablets at once 1.5 hours after a meal, washing down the drug with a sufficient amount of water. Mifepristone is a potent drug, so it is sold from pharmacies only with a doctor's prescription.

Ovidon (Non - Ovlon, Rigevidon, Silest) and other combined contraceptive pills after intercourse.

You should start taking birth control pills no later than 72 hours after unprotected contact. Such oral contraceptives are intended for continuous use (1 tablet per day), but in emergency cases they can be used as an “ambulance” to prevent unwanted pregnancy. The main thing is to correctly calculate the required dose in such a way as to achieve the desired effect without harming the body.

Consequences of taking postcoital birth control pills

Before starting to use emergency contraception, every woman should be aware of the negative consequences of their use. Taking birth control pills with high concentrations of hormones can lead to the following complications:

• uterine bleeding;
• menstrual irregularities;
• risk of developing ectopic pregnancy;
• reproductive dysfunction (infertility);
• impaired hemostasis leading to the formation of blood clots;
• intestinal damage (Crohn's disease).

In addition to dangerous complications, a woman, while taking such drugs, faces unpleasant side reactions - swelling and tenderness of the mammary glands, nausea, vomiting, nagging pain in the lower abdomen, migraine. In addition, many reviews mention allergic reactions and emotional instability, expressed by increased irritability and hysteria.

Therefore, before deciding to take postcoital pills, every woman should find out possible contraindications and take into account the likely risks of using high-dose oral contraceptives.

Although emergency contraception is harmful to the body, and many women know about it, despite this it remains very, very popular. In some situations, the use of this kind of drugs is really the only way out of the situation, while in others it causes unjustified harm to the body. Let's look at the most popular emergency contraceptive drugs recommended by gynecologists, how to take them correctly, what side effects they have, what contraindications, etc.

When is emergency contraception needed?

The main reason for taking drugs for this purpose is unprotected sexual intercourse. Yes, despite the widespread use of modern contraceptive methods and their convenience, some couples forget about it. At the most necessary moment there is no condom at hand or... it just breaks. Should we panic in this case?

First, you should calm down and try to calculate which day of the menstrual cycle is currently underway. After all, emergency contraception is not so safe; pills taken can lead to unpleasant consequences. So, if you have unprotected sexual intercourse in the first or last 7-8 days of the menstrual cycle, and its (menstrual cycle) duration is the classic 28-30 days and it is regular, then most likely you should not take pills, since ovulation (the day when pregnancy may occur) falls in the middle of the menstrual cycle.

Another common question is whether emergency contraception can be used in conjunction with planned contraception? For example, in the first 14 days of the first cycle of taking oral contraceptives, you should use another method of contraception at the same time, since the first one has not yet fully “taken effect”. Or there was simultaneous use of OCs with antibiotics or other drugs that tend to reduce the effectiveness of contraceptives. In this case, you should not take additional “emergency” medications. In addition to OCs, non-hormonal contraception should be used. Another thing is the use of spermicides (if, for example, a suppository was inserted into the vagina not before sexual intercourse, but after or immediately before sexual intercourse, without waiting the recommended time interval of 5-10 minutes) or condoms (they tend to sometimes tear).

What to do if a woman is breastfeeding? Is emergency contraception necessary in this case? Of course, it is better to avoid such situations, but if something goes wrong, you can use emergency medications. But in this case, you will have to postpone breastfeeding for one day, until the drug is completely removed from the body.

Emergency protection options

Gynecologists offer several possible drug regimens and there is a whole range of drugs themselves.

The most famous and still popular is postinor. But it is considered an “old generation” drug that has a huge number of side effects. Reception is carried out as follows: within 48 hours (but no later than 72 hours) after sexual intercourse, a woman drinks one tablet, and after 12 hours - another one. Moreover, the earlier the first pill is taken, the higher the likelihood that emergency contraception will take effect, the drugs are taken for a reason, and pregnancy will not occur.

Escapelle is a more modern drug. Its distinctive feature is the content of 1.5 mg of levonorgestrel in 1 tablet. In connection with this, there is no need to take a second pill (previous generation emergency contraceptive drugs contained 2 times less of this hormone, which is why a double dose was required). WHO advises giving preference to drugs that contain 1.5 mg of levonorgestrel. Although both have side effects. Different women's reactions to taking pills are individual. Excapel should be taken no more than 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse.

And finally, the third option is to take regular combined oral contraceptives in a larger dosage according to a special regimen. Or take 3 tablets of Silest at a time (or its analogues - Regividon, Miniziston) and after 12 hours take 3 more tablets. Or take 4 tablets of Marvelon, and after 12 hours - the same amount.

The following rule applies to all the drugs described above - if vomiting or diarrhea occurs within 2-3 hours after taking them, it is likely that the tablets have not been fully absorbed and, accordingly, will not have a full effect, which means pregnancy is possible. You need to repeat the procedure.

By the way, what happens if pregnancy occurs? Will this emergency contraception affect her and the health of her unborn child? Doctors agree that an abortion should not be done due to taking drugs; they will not have any effect on the child’s health. Another thing is if the drug is taken already during pregnancy (thus some people try to cause a miscarriage on their own), in which case problems may arise. However, in the early stages, the “all or nothing” principle applies, therefore, if a miscarriage did not occur in the early stages, most likely, everything turned out well, or rather, the screenings that the woman will undergo if she wants to continue the pregnancy will show.

Side effects and frequency of use

Emergency contraception should be used only in force majeure situations when there is no other option. It is advisable - no more than 2-3 times a year, and even better - if less often. The most common side effect from emergency contraceptive pills is uterine bleeding, which usually occurs a few days after taking them. But other women, on the contrary, experience delays in their periods and the menstrual cycle is disrupted. Other common side effects are headaches, dizziness, diarrhea and vomiting, and various allergic reactions.

Other emergency contraception options

There are other methods of postcoital contraception - effective, and not very effective. The first includes emergency installation of an intrauterine device (not always feasible in a short time, since you need to pass a number of tests and undergo an ultrasound; in addition, there are many contraindications to installation). If this is done within 3 days after unprotected sexual intercourse, then even if the egg is fertilized, it most likely will not be able to implant into the wall of the uterus. This option is suitable for women who were already planning to install a spiral. A significant disadvantage is that the cervix may be injured, since only at the beginning of the menstrual cycle the cervix is ​​softened and more adapted to the safe insertion of an IUD.

Other methods are folk, with unproven effectiveness and even dangerous. With their help, women try to provoke the onset of menstruation ahead of schedule, but in fact, they want to cause a miscarriage in the early stages of pregnancy. Folk methods of emergency contraception include a “food” made from sugar with iodine, ascorbic acid, parsley, hot baths, herbs like tansy and much, much more. But we do not recommend using these means.

Always remember that emergency contraception is quite dangerous, but less dangerous than abortion. In order not to test either the first or the second from your own experience, choose a reliable method of planned contraception.

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