There are many myths surrounding the use of emergency contraceptives, and the question of what it is and when to use it is just a fraction of the controversy surrounding this arguably new practice.
Emergency contraceptives are methods of preventing pregnancy after the act of unprotected sexual intercourse. It does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases. This article breaks down some myths about emergency contraception.
Myth 1: Emergency Contraception is Only for the Morning After
You don’t have to wait until the morning after unprotected sex to use the emergency contraceptive pill. In fact, it’s more effective the sooner you take it – as soon as possible after unprotected sex. If pregnancy is not in your plans right now, it’s a good idea to have the emergency contraceptive pill within easy reach, just in case. However, although the emergency contraceptive pill is a safe and effective way to avoid pregnancy for the occasional sexual mishap, it should never be used as a regular method of birth control.
Myth 2: You’re protected for the rest of your cycle
Taking the emergency contraceptive pill does not protect you from pregnancy later on in your cycle. If you have sex again before you have your period, you would need to use another form of contraception. Emergency contraception is not designed to be used as a regular form of contraception but can be used more than once in a cycle if necessary.
Myth 3: The morning after pill makes you infertile
The morning after pill acts as temporary contraception, and there is currently no evidence that using it increases the risk of infertility. It is not even effective for any subsequent times you have sex after taking it.
Myth 4: You’ll experience side effects from the morning-after pill
The morning after pill is considered safe to use, and not everyone will experience emergency contraception side effects. While some people report side effects such as headaches, nausea, tiredness, and irregular menstrual bleeding, many people do not experience anything negative at all.
