Contraceptive Options: Emergency Contraception

At LifeCycle Women's Health Clinic, we offer comprehensive reproductive health services and care, including contraception and emergency contraception.

Understanding your options for emergency contraception is crucial in preventing unintended pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or as a result of contraceptive failure. Below, you’ll find an overview of the emergency contraception methods that we offer.

​

​

What is Emergency Contraception?

Emergency contraception is used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or if a contraceptive method has failed. It's important to note that emergency contraception is not intended as a regular method of contraception but as a backup precaution and should be limited to situations where it is needed.

Emergency Contraceptive Pills 

There are two main types of emergency contraceptive pills available:

​

• Levonorgestrel Pills: These pills should be taken as soon as possible, ideally within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected intercourse as effectiveness decreases the longer you wait.

• Ulipristal Acetate Pills: This pill can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex and is more effective than Levonorgestrel pills, especially when taken within the first 3 days.

Both types of ECPs work by delaying ovulation. It's important to understand that if ovulation has already occurred, ECPs may not be effective.

​

​

The Copper Coil as Emergency Contraception

The copper intrauterine device (IUD) can also be used as emergency contraception. 

It's a highly effective form of emergency contraception and can be inserted up to 5 days after unprotected intercourse. As well as offering immediate emergency contraception, the woman can choose to keep the copper coil to provide ongoing protection.

​

Considerations and Next Steps?

• Timing: The sooner you use emergency contraception after unprotected sex, the more effective it will be.
   

• Accessibility: Emergency contraception tablets are available from pharmacies without a prescription. However, for the copper IUD, you'll need to visit a healthcare provider for insertion.
   

• Follow-Up: After using emergency contraception, you should schedule an appointment with your healthcare provider to discuss your regular contraceptive options and ensure you're protected in the future.
   

What To Do If You Need Emergency Contraception?

If you require emergency contraception or have questions about your options, LifeCycle Women's Health Clinic is here to help. Our trusted and compassionate team can provide confidential advice and support, answer your questions, and help you to make the best decision for you.

​

At LifeCycle Women's Health Clinic, our experienced and trusted team is here to provide confidential guidance, answer your questions, and support you in making the right decision for you. 

For more information on emergency contraception, or for confidential advice, please contact us at info@lifecycleclinic.ie or call us at 089 2647486 / 091 339566.