To compensate for a mishap (tearing the condom, forgetting the pill, moving the intra-vaginal ring, etc.) and avoiding an unwanted pregnancy, there are a few methods to make up for the risky situation. Learn about the different types of emergency contraception, how well they work and how they work.

As its name suggests, it is a very punctual and exceptional contraceptive method, which should be considered following a risky relationship that could lead to an unwanted pregnancy. It must therefore be taken as soon as possible after intercourse and is only effective within 5 days of this episode.

There are two kinds:

• The hormonal method (morning after pill)
• And the placement of an intrauterine device, or IUD like the copper IUD

By acting directly on a woman’s menstrual cycle, this emergency contraception completely modifies the proper functioning of the uterine lining but does not in any way stop a pre-existing pregnancy. This is why it is essential to implement it as soon as possible. It is also not 100% reliable, in case of doubt or in the presence of a late period, so do not hesitate to consult a doctor.

A cracked condom or a forgotten pill are the two most common reasons for using such contraception. The reflex is then generally to run to the pharmacy to get a pill called “the next day”. It is effective for 3 days after intercourse and only requires one intake. However, it should be noted that the latter does not in any way replace a so-called “classic” contraception and that it must remain very exceptional.

There is also no point in counting the days and trying to calculate your ovulation period to convince yourself that the pregnancy will not come, because it is almost impossible to know for sure when it will occur. Indeed, the cycle of the same woman can vary from 23 to 35 days according to the cycles.

Effective within 3 to 5 days following the risk report, it is very easy to obtain since it is available without a prescription in all pharmacies. It makes it possible to block or delay ovulation and therefore possible fertilization, then finally pregnancy.

It is free for minors in infirmaries, family schedules and pharmacies on simple declaration of age and without any other proof. For adults, it costs around € 7 and can be reimbursed by Social Security on prescription from a doctor.

It should be taken from the first hours after the report to maximize the effects. It never replaces the classic contraceptive pill which must therefore be continued until the end of the initial pack. It is also not recommended to use the morning after pill more than once per cycle.

It does not represent any health risk, apart from disrupting the menstrual cycle with each intake, which is not ideal. Nevertheless, it is important to perform a pregnancy test in the weeks following its ingestion to verify that fertilization has been avoided. It can also cause some mild side effects like nausea, headaches or stomach aches, and small bleeding from the vagina which goes away quite quickly.

For reports following this incident, it is advisable to use a condom every time.

Less known than the morning after pill, it is however just as effective, if not much more reliable. Indeed, it helps prevent the egg from attaching and implanting in the heart of the uterine lining and has a fairly effective spermicidal effect.

It is to be implanted within 5 days maximum after unprotected or poorly protected intercourse and requires a prior consultation with a doctor, a gynecologist or a midwife to rule out any contraindication. The advantage of this emergency contraception is that once in place, it becomes a reliable method of regular contraception. The copper IUD is available in pharmacies on medical prescription and is covered by health insurance at the usual rate.

Regarding side effects, there may be some slight loss of blood following its insertion as well as some uterine cramps during the following hours. This type of device can be considered regardless of the woman’s age and even if she has not yet had a child.

Emergency contraception must absolutely remain occasional. To avoid risks and live your sexuality serenely, it is essential to be prescribed a regular and effective contraceptive method. Do not hesitate to speak with your doctor or your gynecologist to choose a method adapted to your situation.