Emergency contraceptive pill

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Q: What is a Emergency contraceptive pill?

Emergency contraceptive pill is actually a tablet meant for use during emergencies. If you had unprotected sex by chance or the condom ruptured, ECP will ensure that you do not become pregnant.
 Emergency contraceptive pill | Drsafehands

Q: When should I take?

It is to be taken preferably with 24 hours of having unprotected sex.
It must be taken within 72 hours otherwise it is ineffective.
It does not offer 100 percent protection. At best, the success rate is 90 to 95 percent.
It is not an abortion pill. Hence, if you are already pregnant, please do not take it. It prevents conception from happening but if you have already conceived, it is of no use.

Q: Does it protect from STD's?

It protects you from pregnancy but please note it offers no protection to sexually transmitted diseases like HIV/AIDS or HPV or syphilis etc.

Q: How often can I take ECP?

If possible, you should never take it. It is not a regular method to avoid pregnancy. What it does is give you the option to avoid pregnancy in case of accidental intercourse. Unfortunately, it has become a symbol of sexual freedom of this generation. Both boys and girls have this notion "have sex anytime- take pill". Taking pill frequently plays havoc with a girl's body.

Q: What are the side effects of ECP?

Nausea, breast tenderness, irregular menses, heavy bleeding, pain in the lower abdomen are some of the common temporary side effects. It may also lead to reduced interest in sex, skin allergies, and severe headache.
Frequent use, leads to severe menstrual problems and even damage to the ovaries.
It is not recommended for teenagers since it damages the developing reproductive system.