What are the emergency concentration pills? Emergency contraception: methods, methods and consequences

In our article we will look at the most effective birth control pills after unprotected sexual intercourse. You will find rules for using these drugs, as well as their features.

Postcoital contraception is considered to be the prevention of pregnancy, which is extremely undesirable. The need to take these medications arises if a woman forgets to take an oral contraceptive on time or the condom breaks during sexual intercourse. Often, postcoital contraception is used after violent sexual intercourse.

It should be noted that preventing pregnancy is possible only if the woman takes an emergency contraceptive within 3 days of unprotected sexual intercourse.

Levonorgestrel-based birth control pills

Emergency contraceptives that contain levonorgestrel prevent fertilization of the egg. After taking the pill, ovulation is delayed due to cervical mucus, which prevents sperm from entering the egg.

Will these birth control pills help after intercourse? depends on the time that has passed since sexual contact:

• up to 24 hours - 95% efficiency;
• 25 - 48 hours - efficiency 85%;
• 49 - 72 hours - effectiveness 58%.

Let's look at which levonorgestrel-based birth control pills are the most effective today:

Name	How long should I take it?	Instructions	Photo
Within 72 hours	The use of emergency contraception is effective for 3 days. Please note that the package contains 2 tablets, therefore, the emergency contraceptive must be taken twice. The second tablet should be taken 12 hours after taking the first. Without chewing, drink with clean water.
Within 72 hours	Within 3 days after sex (unprotected), you need to take one tablet. If any side effects in the form of vomiting, repeated administration of the drug is necessary.

Emergency contraception based on mifepristone

Thanks to the active substance (mifepristone), ovulation becomes impossible if you take the pill within 3 days of unprotected sexual intercourse. If more than 3 days have passed, mifepristone (increased dosage) is used to terminate pregnancy in the early stages (up to 9 weeks).

Name	How long does it take to take	Instructions	Photo
Gynepristone	Within 72 hours	Take 1 tablet with a small amount of water.
Genale	Within 72 hours	It is preferable to take this drug 2 hours before meals, provided that at least 2 hours have passed since the last meal.
Agesta	Within 72 hours	Take 1 tablet with a small amount of water. It is preferable to take this drug 2 hours before meals, provided that at least 2 hours have passed since the last meal.

Combined oral contraceptives for emergency contraception (Yuzpe method)

The Yuzpe method is an emergency contraception that is based on taking oral contraceptives.

To effectively prevent unwanted pregnancy, it is recommended to take the pills within 24 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse. This method is characterized by taking the following medications:

• Marvelon.
• Microgenone
• Regulon.
• Rigevidon.
• Miniziston.

You can also use low-dose hormonal drugs, such as Novinet, Logest or Mercilon. In this case, you need to take 5 tablets twice with an interval of 12 hours.

Emergency contraceptives during lactation

Women who are breastfeeding can use two types of emergency contraception:

Contraceptive	Characteristic
Installation of an intrauterine device	To prevent an unwanted pregnancy, an ectopic device must be installed within 5 days from the moment of unprotected sexual intercourse. In this case, there is no need to interrupt breastfeeding. It should be noted that after installation of the intrauterine device, the contraceptive effect will remain in the future.
Taking hormonal pills	If a woman breastfeeding decided to use hormonal drugs to prevent unwanted pregnancy, You must stop breastfeeding for 36 hours. In order not to disrupt milk production during a given period of time, a woman needs to express milk and replace the baby’s food with age-appropriate milk formulas. During lactation, a woman can choose any of the above types medications. However, experts recommend giving preference to levonorgestrel-based tablets. The most suitable option would be Escapelle tablets, which are taken once.

Non-hormonal emergency contraceptives

There are two types of emergency contraception:

1. hormonal drugs;
2. non-hormonal drugs.

Medicines that do not contain hormones include medications based on mifepristone. Let's list their names:

1. Genale;
2. Gynepristone;
3. Agesta.

Preparations based on this active substance do not disrupt hormonal levels. Mifepristone tablets are believed to be more effective than levonorgestrel tablets.

Another advantage of non-hormonal drugs is the lower incidence of side effects.

Which contraceptives are the safest?

The Yuzpe method is considered to be the safest emergency contraception. Low-dose medications have minimal side effects. If you follow the conditions for taking the pills, the effectiveness of this method is 90%.

These contraceptives can be purchased without a prescription.

It should be noted that vaginal contraceptives are not suitable for emergency contraception due to their low effectiveness.

Table: Comparison of the effectiveness and side effects of birth control pills after unprotected act

Cost of emergency contraceptives

How much do pills that prevent unwanted pregnancy cost? Consider the list of tablets and their average cost:

Please note that the prices for drugs are average. Depending on the region of residence, the cost may vary.

When is postcoital contraception acceptable?

It is possible to use emergency contraceptives if pregnancy is extremely undesirable:

1. Less than 2 years have passed since the cesarean section.
2. The sexual intercourse was of a violent nature.
3. Past attempts to get pregnant have ended in miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.

Before taking a serious medication, you should consider its contraindications:

• Age up to 18 years.
• Existing pregnancy.
• Violations menstrual cycle.
• Malignant tumors.

If bleeding occurs after taking an emergency contraceptive, consult a gynecologist immediately.

If 2 weeks after use contraceptive drug Menstruation does not occur on time; you should also consult a doctor.

How to choose birth control pills after intercourse (

Photo: CITAlliance/depositphotos.com

Emergency or postcoital contraception is intended to prevent pregnancy as a result of unprotected intercourse and includes various methods and drugs. Its essence comes down to preventing the fertilized egg from attaching to the wall of the uterus and starting to develop. The effectiveness of this method directly depends on the time of taking the drug - the earlier the drug is used after sex, the higher its effectiveness.

When is emergency contraception needed?

If emergency contraception is taken within 24 hours of sexual intercourse, it is about 95% effective. If the tablet was taken after 25–48 hours, the effectiveness is reduced by 10%. If the product was used after 49–72 hours, the result is 55–60%.

This method can be used very rarely. Under no circumstances should it be used as permanent protection against unwanted pregnancy.

If a woman is breastfeeding, emergency contraception can be used in exceptional cases. To do this, you need to stop breastfeeding for one day until the drug taken is completely eliminated from the body. The use of emergency contraception is justified after physical violence and in cases where pregnancy may threaten the woman's health.

Types of drugs

These products differ in composition and method of application.

Combined oral contraceptives

Taken no later than three days after sexual intercourse. Drugs based on ethinyl estradiol (Marvelon, Miniziston, Microgynon, Femoden, Rigevidon) are usually taken several times. Products based on ethinyl estradiol (Non-ovlon, Bisekurin, Ovulen, Ovidon, Anovlar) should also be taken several times with an interval of 12 hours between doses.

Progestin-only oral contraceptives

The drugs are taken no later than two days after sexual intercourse. Nowadays it is not difficult to purchase escapelle and postinor at the pharmacy. Both medications contain a large dose of the hormone levonorgestrel. The drugs differ in the number of tablets: in escapelle - one, and in postinor - two.

Mifepristone

Mifepristone is not hormonal. Its action is aimed at suppressing female hormone at the level of receptors in the uterus and to increase the contraction of its muscles.

Mifepristone - effective remedy emergency contraception. It blocks the egg so that it cannot enter the uterine lining and also stimulates its rejection. It is used to terminate an unwanted pregnancy in the early stages. Mifepristone should only be used after consulting a doctor.

Intrauterine devices

T-shaped copper-containing intrauterine devices are inserted no later than five days after sexual intercourse in the gynecologist's office. If a woman is prescribed an intrauterine device as emergency contraception, then her individual characteristics and contraindications to the use of this method must be taken into account.

The effect of emergency contraception on the body

Doctors do not advise using this type of contraception constantly, as it has a bad effect on reproductive system women. In the future, this can lead to dysfunction of the ovaries.

With the constant use of purely progestin or combined contraceptives, the woman’s body receives small doses of the drug, designed for the entire menstrual cycle. Taking a hormonal drug does not disrupt the duration of the cycle, its normal cyclicity, and ovarian function becomes better. Hormonal problems, if any, are also eliminated.

If a woman takes the same drug for emergency contraception, then the body receives a dose of the hormonal drug that is many times higher. As a result of constant use of such contraception, the menstrual cycle will become anovulatory (without the formation of an egg), which threatens infertility.

Violation of normal ovarian function leads to the development of metabolic disorder syndrome. It is expressed in an increase in blood sugar, an increase blood pressure, the appearance of excess weight.

As for douching with various solutions, this method does not have the desired effect, since sperm penetrate into the cervix within 1 minute after intercourse. In addition, too frequent douching can lead to vaginal dryness and disruption of microflora.

Cons and side effects

Emergency contraception is completely useless while the egg is implanting in the uterus. The effectiveness of combined oral contraceptives can be observed only if the drug is used no later than 72 hours after sexual intercourse.

The first dose of progestin-only oral contraceptives should be taken no later than 48 hours after sex. Intrauterine contraception will be effective if these drugs were introduced into the uterus within 5 days after the act. Mifepristone should only be taken in a clinic setting under the supervision of a physician. Another disadvantage of Mifepristone is its high price.

Emergency contraception should be used only in exceptional cases, if there is simply no other way out. It is advisable that it be used no more than three times a year. The less often the better.

The most common side effect similar methods is uterine bleeding that occurs 2-3 days after administration. And some women, on the contrary, experience delays in menstruation with severe disruption of the menstrual cycle.

Other side effects, such as dizziness, headaches, vomiting and diarrhea, various allergic reactions are uncommon.

You may experience chest pain, rashes on your arms, legs, feet, and shoulders, blurred vision, difficulty breathing, and vomiting 2 hours after taking the tablet. This indicates an incorrect dose of the hormone.

When using Mifepristone, discomfort in the lower abdomen, vomiting, nausea, weakness, dizziness often occurs, and body temperature rises noticeably.

When using intrauterine contraceptives, during the first few days you may experience severe cramping pain in the lower abdomen and an increase in the amount of discharge during menstruation. In addition, there is a high risk of ectopic pregnancy due to impaired contraction fallopian tubes and the movement of the egg along them. Less commonly, spontaneous prolapse of the intrauterine device and damage to the uterus during its insertion may occur.

Contraindications for emergency contraception:

• intolerance to the components of the drug;
• previous hepatitis;
• diseases of the biliary tract or liver in severe form;
• puberty;
• ongoing pregnancy.

1. The time for taking the dose of the drug should be chosen so that it is convenient to take the next one (for example, 21:00 and 9:00).
2. So that it doesn't happen discomfort(vomiting, nausea), emergency contraceptive pills are best taken with low-fat milk.
3. In the period before the start of the next menstruation, you need to use additional means of protection (barrier method).
4. Emergency contraception is suitable for one-time use. For permanent protection, you need to choose a different method of contraception with your doctor.
5. In cases of menstruation occurring a week or more late, you should consult a gynecologist to rule out pregnancy.

Popular means

Among the most well-known drugs for emergency contraception, the leading places are occupied by postinor and escapelle.

Postinor

Postinor is a popular drug that helps prevent unwanted conception. If this remedy is taken correctly, it is usually possible to avoid unwanted conception. The tablets contain a synthetically created analogue of the hormone levonorgestrel.

This hormone is also included in medications intended for routine contraception. However, its content in Postinor is significantly higher than in planned oral contraceptives.

Postinor should be taken at intervals of 12 hours. The package contains two tablets, one of which is drunk after sexual intercourse, and the second - after 12 hours. This medicinal product can prevent unwanted conception within three days (72 hours). Sometimes two doses are required. This may happen if vomiting occurs after taking at least one of the tablets and the drug is not absorbed. It is advisable to take these tablets after meals. This will reduce the risk of vomiting.

Postinor does not terminate an existing pregnancy; it can only prevent its development. This means that using the drug for abortion will not work. The advantage of postinor is that it does not harm the fetus, and the child can be saved.

Postinor does not prevent sexually transmitted diseases. If you have been physically assaulted or had unprotected sex with an untrusted person, consult a doctor immediately.

The drug, like other emergency contraceptives, may increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy. Ultrasound examination will show the location of the fetus if in doubt.

Escapelle

Unlike postinor, one capsule of escapelle contains 150 mg of the hormone levonorgestrel. Therefore, there is only one tablet in the package. The remedy is most effective if taken on the first day after unprotected sex. The drug may cause nausea and even vomiting. If vomiting occurs earlier than three hours after administration, then you need to use the escapelle again.

The drug can provoke disruptions in the menstrual cycle, promote the appearance of bloody discharge from the vagina, cause a delay in menstruation, as well as chest pain. If your period is more than five days late, it is recommended to take a test to determine whether you are pregnant.

Discussion 1

Similar materials

Safe sex is not a serious problem nowadays - medicine offers a huge number of contraceptives that can protect a couple from both STDs and unwanted pregnancy.

However, in reality, everything looks completely different, and almost every woman has unprotected sexual intercourse at least once in her life. Should you panic in such a situation? Of course not, because all the same modern medications will help protect against its unpleasant consequences.

What to do after unprotected sexual intercourse?

“Accidents” during sexual intercourse can be different - for example, a condom breaks or slips off, a woman forgot to take birth control, or partners, in a fit of passion, did not think about contraception at all. So, what can a woman do after coitus has already occurred?

• Immediately take a vertical position - under the influence of gravity, the seed will flow out of the vagina without reaching the egg. True, you cannot rely solely on this method, because it is too unreliable.
• Within 10 minutes after PA, you need to wash yourself well with warm water and soap - this will help reduce the risk of pregnancy by about 10%. In addition, you can syringe with some acidic solution (vinegar, lemon juice or citric acid), which will help create an environment in the vagina that is unfavorable for sperm. True, such solutions should be handled very carefully - there is a risk of severely burning the mucous membrane.
• If a woman is taking oral contraceptives and has forgotten to take the next pill, she should read the instructions for the drug - it usually indicates the procedure to be followed in such a situation.
• If sexual intercourse occurred with an unreliable or casual partner, you need to treat the genitals as quickly as possible by special means, which will protect the body from STDs. One of these remedies is Miramistin, but with this question it is best to contact a venereologist.

The most effective way of post-coital protection is the so-called emergency (fire, emergency, etc.) contraception, which involves alternate taking of special medications, which today can be found in almost any pharmacy.

So, what are these drugs, and how do they protect a woman from unwanted pregnancy?

In what cases does a woman need emergency
contraception?

It is very important to note that emergency contraception cannot be called a safe, much less healthy, measure.

That is why it should be used only in cases where the onset of pregnancy will almost certainly entail its termination: for example, after rape, unprotected sexual intercourse with an unfamiliar partner, or if during such sexual intercourse there was a misfire with one of the contraceptives.

In addition, we must not forget that such drugs cannot protect a woman from sexually transmitted infections, so additional measures will have to be taken to prevent them.

Types of emergency contraceptives

Today there are several types of emergency contraceptives, each of which has its own characteristics. These include:

• Estrogens. These are the world's first emergency contraceptives, which began to be used in the middle of the last century. They are highly effective, but have many side effects, including nausea, vomiting, blood clots and more. If, despite taking the drugs, pregnancy did occur, it was recommended to terminate it, since they have a strong teratogenic effect on the fetus.
• Gestagens. The action of gestagens is based on the suppression of secretion gonadotropic hormones, thereby preventing ovulation. In addition, they prevent the implantation of the egg, but if this process has already begun, these drugs are powerless and cannot lead to abortion. Taking gestogens (in particular, levonorgestrel, which is a derivative of testosterone) in the first 72 hours after PA reduces the likelihood of fertilization by at least 60%.
• Combined drugs. These drugs, whose action is based on the complex effects of estrogen and progestogen, are the most common emergency contraceptives. Most often, such drugs are taken according to the so-called Yuzpe method, and its effectiveness is about 75%, but 20% of women experience side effects in the form of vomiting, headaches, and menstrual irregularities.
• Antigonadotropins. Drugs that can suppress the production of gonadotropins by the pituitary gland, which causes ovulation to be inhibited and the endometrium to atrophy. If we talk about side effects, then the likelihood of their occurrence is greater than when taking gestagens, but less than when using combination drugs according to the Yuzpe method.
• Antiprogestins. Antiprogestins are drugs active substance which is mifepristone, often used for medical termination of pregnancy. It causes delayed ovulation or endometrial atrophy, which prevents the egg from implanting. Side effects when taking these drugs also occur, but they go away quite quickly; In addition, antiprogestins have virtually no contraindications and are often recommended for those women who are prohibited from using other emergency contraceptives.

Contraceptives after unprotected intercourse

• "Postinor". One of the oldest and most effective emergency contraceptives, which has a gestagenic effect, prevents ovulation and fertilization. The first tablet is taken within 48 hours (no later than 72) after unprotected PA, and the second - 12 hours after the first.
• "Escapelle". Modern drug, the action of which is based on the hormone levonorgestrel, which is highly effective in the first 72 hours after sexual intercourse. If within three hours after taking the woman, diarrhea or vomiting begins, the dose will need to be repeated.
• "Danazol". One of the most popular antigonadotropins, which is recommended to be taken 600 mg within 72 hours after coitus.
• "Plan B" It is a progestin contraceptive and also contains levonorgestrel, which prevents ovulation and egg implantation. The first dose should be taken within the first 48 hours, the second after 12.
• "Ogestrel", "Ovral". The peculiarity of these drugs, which contain progestin and estrogen, is that they can cause a strong gag reflex, so treatment should be started with an antiemetic. The course consists of 4 tablets: the first two are taken in the first 72 hours after “dangerous” sexual intercourse (not earlier than 2 hours after the antiemetic), and two more - 12 hours after the first.
• "Gynepristone." A steroidal antigestagenic drug that can cause delayed ovulation and implantation or endometrial atrophy (depending on the phase of the cycle). The tablet should be taken within 72 hours after unprotected PA, and two hours before and two hours after taking it you should abstain from food.
• "Preven." A combined contraceptive, the course of which consists of 4 tablets - they must be taken at intervals of 12 hours, and the first one should be taken in the first 72 hours after sexual intercourse.

What are the dangers of emergency contraceptives?

To put it simply, the essence of such contraception is that the female body is exposed to huge doses of hormones, creating special conditions under which pregnancy becomes impossible.

That is, such drugs actually provoke hormonal disruption, and not a single doctor can predict exactly how long it will last.

Ideally, this condition lasts no more than one menstrual cycle, but sometimes subsequent menstruation is disrupted - in such cases, the woman should immediately consult a doctor.

In conclusion, we can say that if all known factors are taken into account, then emergency contraceptives are preferable to any abortion (medical or surgical), but they cannot in any case be used as a permanent method to prevent unwanted pregnancy.

IN modern world All obstetricians and gynecologists say that pregnancy should be planned. For the expectant mother You need to prepare your body and undergo examination. This is especially important if a woman has any chronic diseases. However, according to statistics, about 30-35% of pregnancies remain unplanned and most often end in termination, which has a negative impact on women's health. To prevent this, methods to prevent pregnancy can be used in the first days after unprotected intercourse. They are called emergency contraception.

Content:

Types of contraception

Emergency contraception refers to medications that should be taken within 5 days after sexual intercourse to prevent pregnancy. Their use should be deliberate, with an understanding of the risk of negative consequences. Doctors strongly discourage the abuse of emergency contraception; they consider its use possible only in extreme cases. It is better to think about reliable methods of permanent protection in advance and discuss them with your gynecologist. The most in an efficient way protection at the moment are hormonal drugs: tablets, patches, spirals, implants, injections.

There are several types of emergency contraception:

• tablets containing levonorgestrel (Postinor, Escapelle);
• tablets containing ulipristal acetate (Dwella);
• copper-containing intrauterine devices (IUDs);
• combined oral contraceptives (COCs).

The mechanism of action of these contraceptives is to suppress ovulation, create obstacles to fertilization and attachment ovum to the uterus, if fertilization does occur. As a result, pregnancy does not occur.

Emergency contraception does not cause abortion, as many women mistakenly believe. It is not able to terminate a pregnancy after the fertilized egg has attached to the uterus and does not harm the already developing embryo. It follows that if a woman is already pregnant (positive test or analysis for human chorionic gonadotropin), then its use is useless. Such drugs do not affect the ability to conceive during the next menstrual cycle.

In the list of emergency contraception in some sources you can also find Mifepristone tablets. However, they have a completely different mechanism of action. They increase contraction of the uterus and promote the expulsion of the fertilized egg. In fact, they are a drug for medical abortion, not pregnancy prevention.

Indications for use

Emergency contraception may be indicated in unforeseen situations when accidental sexual intercourse has occurred or the reliability of a regularly used method of protection is in doubt. It is strictly prohibited as a regular method of contraception. The list of indications includes:

• rupture or slipping of the condom during sexual intercourse;
• rape;
• failed attempt to interrupt sexual intercourse (emergency ejaculation into the vagina or on the woman’s external genitalia);
• prolapse, breakage, displacement, rupture of the vaginal diaphragm;
• missing a contraceptive pill for three or more days in a row (for mini-pills more than 3 hours late from the scheduled time of administration);
• complete absence contraceptives;
• prolapse of the IUD or hormonal implant.

According to the recommendations of gynecologists, women with regular periods should not use special medications for emergency protection against pregnancy if unprotected sexual intercourse occurred on safe days (before the 6th day of the cycle or after the 26th day of the cycle). The probability of conception these days is very low and is less than 5%.

There are no absolute contraindications for emergency contraception. The method can be used by a woman of any age. Some time after its use, it is necessary to undergo an examination confirming the absence of pregnancy.

Levonorgestrel tablets

These pills are most often used to prevent pregnancy after sexual intercourse. Levonorgestrel is a gestagen and is included in some COCs in small dosages. Two drugs are produced by the famous pharmaceutical company Gedeon Richter (Hungary):

• Postinor with a dosage of levonorgestrel 0.75 mg;
• Escapelle with a dosage of levonorgestrel 1.5 mg.

For emergency contraception, tablets with levonorgestrel are taken in a dose of 1.5 mg once no later than 72 hours after unprotected sexual intercourse. This dosage corresponds to 1 tablet of Escapel or 2 tablets of Postinor. Postinor is taken according to the following regimen: 2 tablets once or 1 tablet every 12 hours.

After taking the drugs in the indicated dosages, the likelihood of pregnancy is reduced to 2-3%. The sooner after sexual intercourse you take the product, the higher the protective effect. For women with overweight body chances of getting pregnant are slightly higher and reach 9%.

As a rule, these drugs do not subsequently affect the regularity of the menstrual cycle and the nature of the discharge, but sometimes they can cause premature onset or delay of menstruation within 5 days.

Contraindications include hypersensitivity to the main and auxiliary substances included in the preparations, pregnancy, lactation, severe dysfunction of the liver and kidneys.

Adverse reactions include nausea, weakness, pain in the lower abdomen, headaches, stool disorders, and engorgement of the mammary glands. Vomiting may also be one of the side effects. If it occurs within 3 hours after taking the drug, then the dose must be repeated.

The main danger of emergency drugs with levonorgestrel is that if they do not prevent the fertilization of the egg and the development of the embryo, they can lead to an ectopic pregnancy. This is due to the fact that they slow down the movement of the egg through the fallopian tubes into the uterine cavity.

Video: How to take Postinor, effectiveness and contraindications

Ulipristal acetate tablets

Tablets with ulipristal acetate are produced under the trade name Dwella by Gedeon Richter (Hungary). They are considered more effective and safe for emergency contraception than levonorgestrel drugs. In addition, they are used for a longer period after sexual intercourse (5 days or 120 hours).

The dosage of ulipristal acetate effective for emergency prevention of pregnancy is 30 mg. It should be taken once. The mechanism of action of the drug is to inhibit and slow down the onset of ovulation, as a result of which the release of a mature egg from the follicle is blocked, its meeting with the sperm becomes impossible.

Contraindications for this method of contraception include hypersensitivity or intolerance to the components of the drug, liver and kidney failure, pregnancy, and breastfeeding. Adverse reactions include headaches, nausea, abdominal discomfort, and dysmenorrhea. They usually occur in mild or moderate form and go away on their own.

Emergency contraception with a copper-containing IUD is characterized by the highest level of protection (more than 99%), but is used much less frequently for several reasons:

1. Less ease of use. It is much easier to take a pill than to make an appointment with a doctor and endure this not very pleasant procedure. Before inserting the IUD, it is necessary to take tests and undergo an examination to exclude contraindications, which takes some time.
2. Duration of contraception. When using the pills, a woman, if desired, is able to become pregnant in the next menstrual cycle. The spiral is placed not for one day, but for a period of 5 years. This means that all this time the woman will not be able to conceive.
3. Feelings. Placing a spiral is a rather unpleasant and painful process. In addition, if performed unsuccessfully, it can injure the cervix and uterine mucosa.

For emergency contraception, the IUD is installed within 5 days after unprotected sexual intercourse. An intrauterine T-shaped device Nova T (Germany) or ParaGard T (USA) is inserted into the uterine cavity. Considering the length of the installation period, this method is ideal for women who plan to use it continuously in the future as the main method of contraception.

The contraceptive effect of inserting a copper IUD is realized by preventing the implantation of a fertilized egg. Copper in the IUD causes a local reaction such as inflammation in the uterine cavity, changes chemical composition environment, has a spermicidal effect.

Contraindications for inserting a spiral include:

• inflammatory and infectious processes in the pelvic organs;
• pathological formations in the body or cervix;
• pregnancy;
• malformations and abnormal shape of the uterus or cervical canal.

This method is not suitable for women with bleeding disorders.

Birth control pills

Emergency contraception using COCs is now rarely used, although it was quite popular a few decades ago. It is characterized by the most low level protection. This method of contraception is called the Yuzpe method.

It consists of taking several tablets of combined oral contraceptives within 72 hours after sexual intercourse in doses significantly higher than usual. The number of tablets that need to be taken is calculated so that a total of approximately 200 mcg of ethinyl estradiol and 1.5 mg of gestagen are obtained. This dosage is divided into 2 doses with an interval of 12 hours. For example:

1. COCs containing 30 mcg ethinyl estradiol (Femoden, Tri-regol, Triquilar, Marvelon) are taken in two doses with an interval of 12 hours, 4 tablets each.
2. COCs containing 50 mcg ethinyl estradiol (Non-ovlon, Ovidon) are also taken (200 mcg) in two doses with an interval of 12 hours, but 2 tablets each.

The disadvantage of this method of emergency contraception is the increased risk of serious side effects and deterioration in well-being, which is caused by taking high doses of estrogen.

Before using any tablets for emergency prevention pregnancy, it is important to consult your doctor. The effect of drugs disrupts natural physiological processes and may have in the future negative consequences for reproductive function.

Video: Obstetrician-gynecologist on the rules of taking medications for emergency contraception

Emergency contraception- these are methods and means of preventing unwanted pregnancy, intended for use after sexual intercourse. They are designed for one-time use and are not a replacement for routine contraceptives. The effectiveness of emergency contraception directly depends on the timing and technique of use: if you follow the recommendations of specialists and manufacturers, conception can be avoided in 95% of cases.

• unprotected sexual intercourse took place;
• when using barrier contraception they have been damaged or slipped;
• failed to take hormonal medications for planned contraception 3 times in a row;
• doubts have arisen regarding the effectiveness of spermicidal tablets or films due to their incomplete dissolution;
• the technique of interrupted coitus is violated.

Emergency contraception is also necessary to prevent pregnancy as a result of rape.

Before turning to the technique of emergency prevention of conception, you should make sure that it is necessary. To do this, you need to determine the day of the menstrual cycle: if sexual intercourse occurred in the first or last week of a cycle of 28-30 days, the likelihood of the egg being released and fertilized is minimal.

Contraindications

Several techniques and medications of emergency contraception are used as emergency measures to prevent unplanned pregnancy. All of them have both indications and certain limitations that must be taken into account when choosing a product. Contraindications include some pathologies of the genitourinary system, blood clotting disorders, previous liver diseases, the presence bad habits etc.

That is why, before using any medications, techniques and methods of contraception, it is necessary to consult a doctor. Only a specialist will be able to select an emergency contraception technique, the use of which will be associated with minimal harm to the body.

Operating principle

In gynecology, two main techniques of urgent contraception are used: the introduction of intrauterine copper-containing contraceptives and the use of hormonal drugs. The operating principle of these two main groups is somewhat different.

The technique of intrauterine contraception is based on the fact that the means introduced into the organ (spirals) are perceived by the body as a foreign body. As a result of the constant presence of an irritating factor in the mucous membrane (endometrium), increased amount prostaglandins. They increase the contractility of the muscular layer of the uterus and fallopian tubes. Due to more intense contractions, the egg moving through the tube enters the uterine cavity ahead of schedule and cannot attach to the endometrium. This emergency technique prevents the implantation of a fertilized egg into the mucous membrane, preventing unplanned pregnancy.

Hormonal contraceptive pills act as follows: the substances they contain slow down ovulation, so that the egg continues to remain in the ovary. In addition, hormones change the timing of maturation of the upper layer of the mucosa, causing its premature rejection. It is accompanied by bleeding similar to menstruation. Even if the egg managed to get into the tube and be fertilized before using contraception, it will come out along with the blood and the upper layer of the endometrium.

Methods

Before choosing one of the emergency contraception techniques, it is necessary to weigh all the pros and cons of each option and determine the possibility of its use in a particular situation.

Hormonal

If no more than 72 hours have passed since sexual intercourse, the gynecologist may recommend one of the hormone-containing drugs as emergency contraception. The effectiveness of this emergency method ranges from 60 to 90% and depends on the composition of the tablets and compliance with the administration technique.

Majority hormonal drugs Emergency contraception is intended for one-time use; in some cases, it may be necessary to take the pill again after 12 hours. Before recommending this technique, the doctor must exclude contraindications: individual intolerance to the components, pregnancy (hormones have a negative effect on the fetus), previous uterine bleeding and liver disease.

Since the use of hormonal emergency contraception results in a change in the balance of hormones, a woman may experience some discomfort and temporary deterioration in well-being. Side effects of this technique for emergency prevention of conception are headaches, dizziness, attacks of nausea, and pain in the lower abdomen.

The use of hormonal emergency pregnancy prevention techniques in the vast majority of cases causes cycle disruption. Menstruation may begin earlier or later than expected, and the discharge may be more abundant. The reason for visiting a doctor should be a delay in menstruation for more than three weeks after using contraception.

Hormonal contraception is not recommended during breastfeeding, as some of the components pass into breast milk. If this technique is the only possible way emergency prevention of conception, the drug is taken as follows: the tablet is taken after feeding the baby, who is then transferred to artificial feeding for at least a day. Some medications for emergency contraception require a longer period to be eliminated from the body, so consultation with a specialist is necessary. Following these recommendations during lactation will minimize the effect of hormones on the child.

The list of pills that can be used for emergency contraception is quite large. They differ in composition, technique of exposure, and list of contraindications. Only a specialist can determine which pills are suitable in a given situation, and whether it is even possible to use this technique to prevent conception, after collecting an anamnesis and assessing the patient’s condition. Hormonal medications intended for emergency medical abortions cannot be purchased at a pharmacy without a prescription.

Non-hormonal

Non-hormonal pregnancy prevention techniques include the installation of intrauterine devices. Today you can find several dozen types of such contraceptive devices on sale. They are made of flexible plastic, copper or silver. It is believed that best spirals- these are those that contain copper. This metal is capable of inhibiting the vital activity of sperm, which ensures increased effectiveness of the contraception technique.

Spirals are divided into types not only by materials, but also by shape. Traditionally, T-shaped products are used for emergency contraception, but some women with non-standard form or abnormal curvature of the uterus, it is recommended to install other spirals for more reliable fixation.

The recommended time frame for using this emergency contraception technique is up to 5 days from the moment of unprotected sexual intercourse. Before placing the IUD into the uterus, it is necessary to undergo a series of tests and examinations that will establish the possibility of using this technique for emergency pregnancy prevention. The list includes smears for microflora and oncocytology, clinical analysis blood, ultrasound of the internal genital organs and other examination methods.

Various types of IUDs can be inserted both for a short period of time to prevent conception after unprotected sexual intercourse, and for a long period of up to 5 years (if a woman intends to use the technique as routine contraception).

The method has several contraindications that must be taken into account before making a final decision. Non-hormonal methods of contraception are not suitable for those girls and women who have not yet given birth or have had an ectopic pregnancy in the past. Absolute contraindications for the use of the technique include the presence of inflammatory processes in the uterus and appendages, sexually transmitted infections, and various endometrial pathologies.

Installing an intrauterine device has undeniable advantages compared to the use of hormonal emergency contraception:

• the effectiveness of the method reaches 98%;
• during sexual intercourse, the woman and her partner do not experience discomfort;
• this is one of the most financially accessible methods of contraception: the spiral can be installed for several years, during which there is no need to use other types of contraceptives;
• The method of non-hormonal emergency contraception is recommended for nursing mothers due to the absence of harmful effects on the baby.

The use of a spiral also has its disadvantages. First of all, this concerns an increase in the intensity of discharge during menstruation. The technique is also not suitable for women who do not have one permanent partner due to the increased likelihood of infections entering the uterus.

Folk

Some women, after having sexual intercourse without using contraception, avoid visits to the doctor, preferring hormonal pills and the installation of an IUD. folk remedies emergency pregnancy prevention.

The most popular techniques and types of folk contraception include douching with herbal infusions and vinegar solution, taking hot bath, drinking decoctions of ginger root, marjoram or shepherd's purse. The effectiveness of such techniques is quite low, but this is not the main drawback of such contraception: most contraceptive methods that are used at home can lead to damage and burns to the uterine mucosa and cause exacerbation concomitant diseases and menstrual irregularities. Doctors strongly recommend not to use such emergency techniques to prevent and terminate pregnancy, as such contraception can affect health and lead to serious complications.

When using any of the emergency conception prevention techniques, the following important points must be taken into account:

• None of the types of emergency postcoital contraception protect against sexually transmitted diseases. If sexual intercourse did not occur with a regular partner and there is a possibility of infection, it is necessary to undergo additional examinations for the presence of sexually transmitted infections as soon as possible.
• During a visit to the doctor, you should clarify the time frame for returning from emergency to planned contraception, and which pregnancy prevention technique is most optimal for use in the future. This primarily applies to cases of using hormonal pills. Depending on the composition and name of the drug, the time frame for resuming taking the tablets varies from 1 to 6 days.
• If a woman does not plan to have children, she should think about contraception, which will forever eliminate the risk of unplanned pregnancy. Reviews from specialists and patients indicate that the safest and most effective contraceptive technique at the moment is sterilization.

Arguments for and against

Any method of emergency contraception has side effects, ranging from allergies, headaches and discomfort to more serious problems that cause irregular and more intense periods. Before using one of the emergency techniques to prevent conception, you should be sure to make sure of its necessity and weigh all the arguments for and against.

Pros

Despite the negative impact of hormonal emergency contraception on the body, it has one significant advantage: it helps to avoid stress associated with abortion, which is more dangerous for the female body. The technique of artificial abortion has not only negative physiological consequences. For many women, abortion causes depression, neuroses and other psychological disorders. Using emergency contraception allows you to avoid many problems.

Installing an intrauterine device has the following advantages:

• The technique can be used both as emergency and planned contraception.
• The method has the highest degree of effectiveness among all known types of emergency prevention of conception.

Cons

The main disadvantages of emergency contraception techniques include the presence of many contraindications and side effects. Thus, hormonal drugs can provoke menstrual irregularities, the appearance bloody discharge up to the opening of uterine bleeding. With frequent use of such emergency contraception, the likelihood of ectopic pregnancy increases.

The main disadvantages of the IUD installation technique are the need for a preliminary medical examination, the likelihood of injury to the mucous membrane and walls of the uterus when performing emergency contraceptive procedures, and an increased likelihood of developing inflammatory processes of infectious etiology.

Safety

Despite the regular emergence of new generations of hormone-containing drugs and intrauterine devices For emergency contraception, pharmacists and doctors have not yet been able to develop methods that prevent conception without side effects.

The correct selection of emergency pregnancy prevention techniques will help ensure maximum safety. This can only be done by a doctor after a preliminary examination and assessment of the condition, carrying out certain tests and examinations.

It should be remembered that emergency contraception is a fairly serious category of medications, the independent use of which can result in serious pathologies. The same applies to the intrauterine device: its installation must be carried out in appropriate conditions and in compliance with the technique of inserting the device into the uterus.

Reception frequency

The difference between emergency contraceptive pills and conventional contraceptives is that the dosage of biologically active components is significantly increased: preparations for routine use contain significantly less hormones. In this regard, this technique for preventing conception should be used no more often than once every 4-6 months. When taking pills regularly, the hormonal balance is disrupted. In some cases, using emergency contraception too often can lead to infertility.

As for the technique of using intrauterine devices, the frequency of installation and removal of contraceptive devices depends on their model and the desire of the patient. On average, IUDs can provide effective protection against conception for 5-8 years.

Side effects

The list of possible negative consequences depends on the types and methods of emergency contraception, the correct selection of equipment and strict adherence to specialist recommendations. The main side effects that can be caused by the use of various emergency pregnancy prevention techniques are as follows:

• from the reproductive system: pain, the appearance of uncharacteristic discharge, disturbance in the duration of the cycle and the intensity of bleeding;
• from the outside nervous system: mood swings, dizziness;
• from the outside gastrointestinal tract: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea;
• from the circulatory system: bleeding, thrombus formation.

After some methods hormonal contraception Allergic reactions may occur in the form of rashes, swelling, itching.

Consequences

If the emergency pregnancy prevention technique is used only in extreme cases and no more than once every few months, the negative effects of contraception will be temporary. With uncontrolled independent use of medications containing hormones, the consequences can be quite serious: from persistent cycle disruption to the development of pathologies of the reproductive system and irreversible infertility. Young girls and mature women should be especially careful when choosing a technique, since their risk of developing negative consequences is much higher.

Any girl or woman of reproductive age may be faced with the need to take emergency measures to prevent unplanned conception. In such cases, the most optimal way out of the situation would be to use emergency contraception or techniques. Before choosing a contraceptive method, you should definitely consult your doctor and follow all his recommendations in the future. Self-use of medications and failure to follow the accompanying instructions may not only be ineffective, but also harm your health. It should be remembered that the use of any urgent contraception technique is stressful for the body and entails numerous negative consequences. It should only be used in in case of emergency and only as directed by a qualified specialist.