What Is the Morning-After Pill? When and How Should It Be Used?
The morning-after pill, also known as emergency contraception, is a method used to reduce the risk of pregnancyafter unprotected sexual intercourse or when a regular birth control method has failed.It is most effective when taken as soon as possible—ideally within the first 72 hours after intercourse.However, it is important to note that the morning-after pill is not intended for routine contraception and should only be used in exceptional circumstances.
How Does the Morning-After Pill Work?
Morning-after pills contain hormones (most commonly levonorgestrel) that:
Delay ovulation, preventing the release of an egg, or
Prevent fertilized egg implantation in the uterus.
The sooner it is taken, the more effective it is:
Within 12 hours: up to 95% effective
Within 24–48 hours: around 85% effective
Within 48–72 hours: about 58% effective
Prompt use is therefore critical to maximize protection.
When Should It Be Used?
The morning-after pill is recommended after situations such as:
Unprotected sexual intercourse
Condom breakage or slippage
Missed birth control pills
Displacement or expulsion of an IUD
Sexual assault
It is designed to prevent pregnancy but cannot terminate an existing one — it is not an abortion pill.
How Often Can It Be Used?
The morning-after pill should not be used frequently.
Ideally, no more than once a month or three times per year.Overuse can cause menstrual irregularities, hormonal imbalances, and reduced effectiveness.For ongoing contraception, regular birth control methods are safer and more reliable.
Are There Any Side Effects?
The morning-after pill is generally safe, but mild and temporary side effects may occur:
Nausea or vomiting
Headache
Breast tenderness
Abdominal pain
Delayed or irregular period
These usually subside within a few days.If your period is delayed by more than 7 days, take a pregnancy test to be sure.
What to Keep in Mind After Taking It
If you vomit within 2–3 hours after taking the pill, you may need to take another dose.
If no period occurs within 2 weeks, take a pregnancy test.
It protects only against the specific incident — not future sexual activity.
After emergency contraception, you should plan a long-term birth control method with your doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does the morning-after pill guarantee complete protection?No. It is highly effective when taken promptly but not 100% foolproof.
2. Can it be purchased without a prescription?Yes. In Turkey and many other countries, it is available over the counter at pharmacies.
3. Can it delay menstruation?Yes. Your period may be delayed by up to one week. If it’s later than that, consult your doctor.
4. Does it cause miscarriage?No. The morning-after pill does not terminate an existing pregnancy.
5. Is frequent use harmful?Yes. Repeated use may disrupt your hormonal cycle and reduce effectiveness.
6. When should it be taken?Take it as soon as possible after unprotected sex — ideally within 24 hours.
7. Can it be taken during menstruation?Yes, if there’s still a risk of pregnancy, such as unprotected intercourse during your period.
8. Do I still need protection after taking it?Yes. It only protects against one episode of unprotected sex. Use protection for subsequent intercourse.
9. Will it work if I’m already pregnant?No. It has no effect once implantation has occurred.
10. Do I need to see a doctor after taking it?Not necessarily after a single use, but consult a doctor if you need it frequently or have irregular cycles afterward.
