Women's Health: According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are effective only in the first few days following intercourse, before the ovum is released from the ovary and before the sperm fertilises the ovum.
Understanding How Morning-After Pill Affects Women's Reproductive Health
The morning-after pill, a form of emergency contraception, is widely used to prevent unintended pregnancies after unprotected intercourse or contraceptive failure. While it offers a critical safety net, understanding its effects on women's reproductive health is essential. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are effective only in the first few days following intercourse, before the ovum is released from the ovary and before the sperm fertilises the ovum. This article delves into the mechanisms, efficacy, potential side effects, and considerations associated with the morning-after pill, drawing insights from esteemed health organisations.
The morning-after pill primarily functions by delaying or inhibiting ovulation, thereby preventing fertilisation. It is not effective once implantation has occurred and does not terminate an existing pregnancy. They cannot interrupt an established pregnancy or harm a developing embryo, thus cannot cause abortion.
Key considerations regarding the morning-after pill
The morning-after pill is a safe and effective emergency contraceptive that plays a vital role in preventing unintended pregnancies. While it is not intended for regular use, understanding its function, efficacy, and potential side effects can empower women to make informed decisions about their reproductive health.
1. Efficacy
ECPs can prevent about 85% of pregnancies when taken promptly after unprotected intercourse. They are more effective the sooner they are taken.
2. Safety profile
ECPs have an excellent safety profile, with no deaths or serious complications causally linked to their use. The most common side effect is changes in the menstrual period following use. These changes may vary depending on when in the cycle the pills are taken.
3. Impact on fertility
There is no evidence that exposure to levonorgestrel emergency contraception affects foetal development, miscarriage, stillbirth, or subsequent menstruations.
4. Side effects
Some users may experience mild and transient side effects, such as nausea, fatigue, headache, dizziness, breast tenderness, or changes in menstrual bleeding. These side effects are typically short-lived and resolve without intervention.
5. Frequency of use
While ECPs are safe for occasional use, they are not intended as a regular contraceptive method. Frequent use can result in increased side effects, such as menstrual irregularities, although their repeated use poses no known health risks. Women with certain medical conditions should consult healthcare providers for personalised advice.
6. Access and misconceptions
Despite their safety and efficacy, misconceptions about ECPs persist. For instance, some believe that regular use of emergency contraception may cause infertility or increase the risk of cancer; however, these statements are factually incorrect.
7. Behavioural considerations
Research indicates that access to emergency contraception does not lead to riskier sexual behaviours. A study analysing data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth found no association between increased emergency contraception availability and a higher probability of risky sexual practices.
8. Alternative options
The copper intrauterine device (IUD) is another form of emergency contraception that can be used within five days of unprotected intercourse. It is more than 99% effective and can serve as a long-term contraceptive method. However, it may not be suitable for all women and requires insertion by a healthcare professional.
Consulting with healthcare providers for personalised guidance and considering regular contraceptive methods for ongoing protection is advisable.
Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.
DoctorNDTV is the one stop site for all your health needs providing the most credible health information, health news and tips with expert advice on healthy living, diet plans, informative videos etc. You can get the most relevant and accurate info you need about health problems like diabetes, cancer, pregnancy, HIV and AIDS, weight loss and many other lifestyle diseases. We have a panel of over 350 experts who help us develop content by giving their valuable inputs and bringing to us the latest in the world of healthcare.
