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Emergency contraception

Emergency contraception

Although we should always be prepared for sex and protect ourselves against pregnancy, mistakes do happen. Emergency contraception is safe to use in situations where you may have had unprotected sex and don't want to fall pregnant.

Types of emergency contraception

Contraception choices like condoms, the female contraceptive pill, the injection etc., are much cheaper and more effective in the long term. There are side effects to having emergency contraception – frequent use can also make your periods unpredictable and irregular.

Please note

Emergency contraception does not protect you in any way against HIV/AIDS and STIs and should not be your main form of birth control. See Get wise to STIs.

There are two main options available:

  • The emergency pill is an oral contraception method that can be taken by the woman up to 72 hours after having sex. It is most effective in the first 24 hours after having sex.
  • The IUD emergency contraceptive can be inserted at a clinic 120 hours after sex. This method is proven effective in preventing an unwanted pregnancy too.

Emergency pills and IUD devices are available at all City Health clinics on request and are free.

Physical reactions 

If you use emergency contraception, the following symptoms may occur:

  • Normal period and menstrual cycle may change – you may get your period later or earlier or it could be lighter or heavier
  • Tender breasts
  • Dizziness or headaches
  • Nausea or vomiting
 

Please note

The pill may cause you to vomit. If you do vomit within two hours of taking the pill, you’ll need to take another one.

Visit a City clinic

If you need guidance around your contraception choices, or need to find a clinic that can help you with emergency contraception, please visit our clinics and healthcare facilities listing page for a facility near you.

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