User:Mr. Ibrahem/Emergency birth control

Emergency birth control, also known as emergency contraception (EC), are birth control measures used after sex to prevent pregnancy. It may be used after unprotected sex or when there are concerns that currently used birth control is not effective. While it should be used as soon as possible, depending on the type, it may be used up to 5 days after sex. Effectiveness may be up to more than 95%. It may be used by people of any age.

Types include pills and intrauterine devices (IUDs). Pills include ulipristal, levonorgestrel, and combined birth control pills (CBCPs). IUDs are the most effective form. They work by preventing fertilization or disrupting ovulation. Emergency birth control does not result in abortion or harm a fetus in those who are already pregnant.

Side effects with pills are generally mild and may include nausea, tiredness, and irregular vaginal bleeding. If vomiting occurs before 2 hours after taking pills, another dose should be used. They do not alter future fertility. Repeated use, as emergency birth control, does not have any side effects beyond those of typical birth control use. While they may not be as effective in those with obesity, pills may still be used. IUDs are associated with a low risk of pelvic inflammatory disease or uterine perforation.

Emergency birth control was first used in the 1970s. Formal approval occurred in the United States in 1998. They may be provided to people before they may be needed. A pregnancy test is not required before use. Levonorgestrel is available over the counter in the United States for about 10 to 40 USD. Levonorgestrel is most commonly used while IUDs are rarely used as emergency birth control.