⏱️ Men's Health

Emergency Contraception

What to do after unprotected sex — the facts, not the myths.

Emergency contraception (EC) prevents pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. It is widely misunderstood in Nigeria — often confused with abortion, or dismissed as dangerous. It is neither. This page provides accurate, non-judgemental information.

Signs and Symptoms

✓ EC is needed after unprotected sex, condom failure, or missing pills

✓ EC should be taken as soon as possible — effectiveness decreases with time

✓ Normal side effects after EC pills include nausea, spotting, and an altered next period

✓ EC is available from pharmacies and clinics — no prescription needed for Postinor

Risk Factors

Unprotected sex in the last 72–120 hours
Condom breakage or slippage
Missed oral contraceptive pills
Injection overdue (Depo-Provera)
Sexual assault — EC is part of post-exposure care

When to Seek Help

NowWithin 72 hours of unprotected sex for EC pills — effectiveness is highest in the first 24 hours.

SoonWithin 5 days for copper IUD insertion — the most effective form of EC (>99%) and can then continue as regular contraception.

RoutineAfter using EC — follow up to start a reliable regular contraceptive method and ensure you are not pregnant.

Tests & Diagnosis

🧪 Pregnancy Test

EC does NOT work if you are already pregnant. A pregnancy test rules out existing pregnancy.

🧪 STI Screen

If EC is needed after unprotected sex with a new partner — consider STI testing including HIV at the same time.

🧪 Follow-Up Pregnancy Test

If your next period is more than 1 week late after taking EC — do a pregnancy test. EC is not 100% effective.

Treatment Options

Levonorgestrel EC Pill (Postinor)

Contains 1.5mg levonorgestrel. Take as soon as possible within 72 hours of unprotected sex. Most effective in the first 24 hours. Available in pharmacies. NOT an abortion pill — it prevents pregnancy before it begins.

Ulipristal Acetate (EllaOne)

More effective than levonorgestrel, especially between 48–120 hours. Requires a prescription. Maintains effectiveness for the full 5-day window.

Copper IUD Insertion

The most effective EC method (>99%) and works up to 5 days after unprotected sex. Can remain as long-term contraception for up to 10 years.

What to Expect After EC Pills

Nausea, headache, irregular spotting, and a next period that may be earlier, later, or heavier — all normal. If you vomit within 3 hours of taking EC, take a replacement dose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is emergency contraception the same as an abortion?

No. EC prevents fertilisation or implantation before pregnancy is established. It has no effect on an existing pregnancy.

Can I use EC as regular contraception?

EC is not designed for regular use — it is less effective than regular contraception and causes more side effects when used repeatedly. It should be a backup, not a primary method.

How effective is the morning-after pill?

Levonorgestrel EC taken within 24 hours prevents approximately 95% of expected pregnancies. Between 24–72 hours, approximately 85%. After 72 hours, effectiveness drops significantly.

Will EC affect my fertility?

No. Emergency contraception does not affect future fertility. You can become pregnant in the cycle immediately following EC use.

What if I am already on the pill and missed doses?

The action depends on which pill you take, how many doses were missed, and when in the cycle. WhatsApp us for specific advice.