As we observe World Contraception Day this September 26th, it’s important to highlight emergency contraception options that are still misunderstood, especially here in India. One of the most commonly discussed yet often misused methods is the morning-after pill. While I’m not a gynaecologist, I’ve spoken to professionals to bring you this accurate and reliable guide to everything you need to know about the morning-after pill, tailored to our Indian context.
What is the Morning-After Pill?
The morning-after pill, also known as emergency contraception, is a backup option to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or when your regular method of contraception has failed (e.g., a torn condom). It is not meant to be used as a regular birth control method, but it offers a safe and effective option in emergencies.
In India, two main types of morning-after pills are available:
- Levonorgestrel-based pills (e.g., I-Pill, Unwanted 72): Available over-the-counter and should ideally be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex. The sooner it’s taken, the more effective it is.
- Ulipristal Acetate (e.g., Ella): This is not as commonly available in India but is another effective option that works up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex. This option typically requires a prescription.
How Does It Work?
One of the most important things to understand is that the morning-after pill does not cause an abortion. Instead, it works by delaying or preventing ovulation—the release of an egg from the ovaries. If no egg is released, there’s nothing for sperm to fertilize, meaning pregnancy is avoided. However, if ovulation has already occurred, the pill won’t be effective, which is why timing is crucial.
When Should You Take It?
Timing plays a huge role in the effectiveness of the morning-after pill. Here’s a breakdown:
- Within 24 hours: Up to 95% effective.
- Within 48 hours: Around 85% effective.
- Within 72 hours: About 58-61% effective.
In India, the most commonly available pill is levonorgestrel-based, and it works best the sooner you take it after unprotected intercourse. Though the effectiveness declines after 24 hours, it still offers a significantly higher chance of preventing pregnancy if taken within the first 72 hours.
Is the Morning-After Pill Safe?
Yes, it’s generally considered very safe. Many women in India and worldwide have used it without serious long-term health consequences. However, like any medication, it can cause side effects, such as:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Irregular bleeding or spotting
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Breast tenderness
- Changes in the timing or flow of your next period
If you vomit within two hours of taking the pill, you may need to take another dose, so it’s best to consult a healthcare provider in that case.
How Often Can You Use Contraception Pill?
The morning-after pill is for emergency use only and is not meant to be taken regularly. While it is safe to use more than once if needed, relying on it as your main contraceptive method is not advisable. Frequent use can lead to menstrual irregularities, and it’s also less effective than consistent use of regular birth control methods, such as oral contraceptive pills, condoms, or intrauterine devices (IUDs).
Myths and Misconceptions in India
Despite being widely available, there are several misconceptions about the morning-after pill in India, which often lead to its misuse:
- Myth 1: The morning-after pill causes infertility.
Fact: There is no scientific evidence that taking emergency contraception affects future fertility. It simply delays ovulation temporarily. - Myth 2: It’s a form of abortion.
Fact: Emergency contraception prevents pregnancy before it starts. It does not terminate an existing pregnancy. - Myth 3: You can take it any time after unprotected sex.
Fact: The pill becomes less effective with each passing hour. For best results, it should be taken as soon as possible within 72 hours.
Access and Availability Of Contraception in India
In India, emergency contraception is widely available at pharmacies, and no prescription is needed for levonorgestrel-based pills like I-Pill or Unwanted 72. However, it’s essential to use these responsibly. It’s encouraging to see the ease of access, but it also places the responsibility on individuals to be informed about their correct usage.
One challenge is the stigma around purchasing emergency contraception. In many parts of India, women may feel judged or embarrassed when buying it, which can prevent them from accessing it when needed. It’s important to normalize conversations around emergency contraception and reproductive health in general, to ensure that no one feels ashamed for making responsible decisions about their health.
What About Regular Contraception?
The morning-after pill should not be your go-to method of contraception. If you find yourself relying on it frequently, it’s time to explore more consistent options. There are several reliable and long-term contraceptive options available in India:
- Oral contraceptive pills: A daily pill that regulates hormones and prevents pregnancy.
- Condoms: Effective and readily available, with the added benefit of protecting against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- IUD (Intrauterine Device): A small device inserted into the uterus that provides long-term protection (up to 5-10 years).
- Injectables or Implants: Available in some healthcare settings for longer-term protection.
A healthcare provider or gynaecologist can guide you to choose the best option based on your individual needs.
When Should You See a Doctor?
It’s generally safe to take the morning-after pill, but there are situations when it’s best to see a healthcare professional:
- If your period is more than a week late after taking the pill, it’s important to take a pregnancy test to rule out pregnancy.
- If you experience severe abdominal pain, this could indicate an ectopic pregnancy, a rare but serious condition, and requires immediate medical attention.
- If you have any concerns or need advice about your contraceptive options, a visit to your gynaecologist will give you clarity and peace of mind.
On this World Contraception Day, let’s break the stigma surrounding emergency contraception and create an open, judgment-free space for discussing reproductive health in India. The morning-after pill is a safe, effective, and widely available option for preventing unintended pregnancies, but it should be used responsibly and in conjunction with long-term contraceptive planning.
Educating yourself about your options is empowering. If you ever find yourself needing emergency contraception, don’t hesitate to act swiftly and seek guidance from a healthcare professional. Together, we can make informed choices for a healthier future.