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Emergency contraception is a form of birth control that can be used after unprotected sex, contraceptive failure, or sexual assault to prevent pregnancy. Emergency contraception is also known as the morning-after pill, although it is available in different forms and can be taken up to 120 hours after unprotected sex, depending on the type.
The most common form of emergency contraception is a pill that contains levonorgestrel, a synthetic form of the hormone progesterone. This pill works by preventing ovulation, or the release of an egg from the ovary, which is necessary for pregnancy to occur. It may also make it more difficult for sperm to reach the egg if ovulation has already occurred. Levonorgestrel emergency contraception is available over-the-counter without a prescription for people of all ages.
Another type of emergency contraception is the copper intrauterine device (IUD), which can be inserted by a healthcare provider up to five days after unprotected sex. The copper IUD works by preventing fertilization and implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus.
It is important to note that emergency contraception is not 100% effective at preventing pregnancy and should not be used as a regular form of birth control. It also does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you have had unprotected sex or your regular form of birth control has failed, it is important to consider emergency contraception and to speak with your healthcare provider about your options.