Family Planning
Emergency Contraception: Seek Advice Without Waiting
If contraception failed or sex occurred without protection and pregnancy is not wanted, seek advice as soon as possible. Emergency contraception is time-sensitive.
If contraception failed or sex occurred without protection and pregnancy is not wanted, seek advice as soon as possible. Emergency contraception is time-sensitive.
Explain the timing accurately
Tell a pharmacist or clinician when sex occurred, what contraception was used and whether there were other episodes in the same cycle. Mention current medicines and any missed contraceptive doses.
Options include emergency contraceptive pills and a copper IUD. The appropriate option and timing depend on the circumstances; the copper IUD is the most effective emergency method when suitable.
Do not guess from the name
The phrase “morning-after pill” can be misleading because options have different time windows. Do not wait until the next morning to ask, and do not assume it is necessarily too late without obtaining advice.
Ask what to do if vomiting occurs after a pill, when to resume regular contraception and whether condoms or abstinence are needed temporarily. Instructions differ between products.
Complete the follow-up
Confirm when to take a pregnancy test and what symptoms should prompt medical review. Emergency contraception does not protect against sexually transmitted infections or automatically cover later sex.
Use the discussion to choose an ongoing method if needed, but do not let that longer decision delay immediate care. If severe abdominal pain or concerning bleeding develops, seek assessment. Keep the product information or prescription so that another clinician can see exactly what was used if follow-up is necessary.
Further reading and care
For an individual assessment with Dr. Aishwarya Parulekar Pai, contact the clinic and confirm the appointment location before travelling.
Related reading
Contraception After Birth: Do Not Wait for Your First Period