Emergency Contraception and its Impact on Future Fertility

Emergency contraception is an important option for those moments when things don’t go as planned—like when you’ve had unprotected sex or your regular contraceptive method fails.

It's designed to prevent pregnancy in such situations, but a lot of people worry about whether using it could affect their ability to have children in the future. Knowing the facts about emergency contraception and how it affects fertility can ease your worries and help you make better decisions about your reproductive health.

In this blog, we’ll understand what emergency contraception is, how it works, and whether it affects your chances of getting pregnant down the line.

What is emergency contraception?

Emergency contraception refers to methods used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected intercourse or when regular contraception fails, such as in cases of missed pills or broken condoms. It is intended as a backup method and not as a primary form of birth control.

The two main types of emergency contraception are emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs), commonly known as the 'morning-after pill,' and the copper intrauterine device (IUD). Both methods work to prevent pregnancy if used within a specific timeframe after unprotected sex.

How does emergency contraception work?

Emergency contraceptive pills work primarily by delaying ovulation, which means they prevent the ovaries from releasing an egg. Without an egg available for fertilisation, pregnancy cannot occur. The copper IUD, on the other hand, works by creating a hostile environment for sperm, thus preventing fertilisation. It can be inserted up to five days after unprotected intercourse and is highly effective. It’s important to note that emergency contraception does not terminate an existing pregnancy but prevents one from occurring.

Common myths about emergency contraception

There are several myths surrounding emergency contraception that can cause unnecessary worry or confusion:

1.    Myth 1: Emergency contraception is the same as an abortion pill.

This is incorrect. Emergency contraception works by preventing pregnancy, whereas the abortion pill terminates an already established pregnancy.

2.    Myth 2: Emergency contraception can be used regularly as a form of birth control.

Emergency contraception is not meant for regular use and should only be used in emergencies. It is less effective than regular contraceptive methods and can lead to more side effects if used frequently.

3.    Myth 3: Emergency contraception affects long-term fertility.

There is no scientific evidence to support this. Emergency contraception does not have any long-term impact on a person's ability to conceive in the future.

Impact of emergency contraception on future fertility

One of the most common concerns about emergency contraception is its potential impact on future fertility. However, numerous studies and insights from medical professionals confirm that emergency contraception does not have any long-term effects on fertility.

The hormones used in emergency contraceptive pills, such as levonorgestrel or ulipristal acetate, leave the body quickly, and normal menstrual cycles usually resume shortly after use. Similarly, the copper IUD can be removed at any time, with fertility returning to normal immediately.

Visit Pearl Chemist Group for emergency contraception services

Emergency contraception is a safe and reliable way to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or when your regular birth control doesn’t work.

Emergency contraception doesn’t affect your ability to get pregnant in the future, so you can still have children whenever you're ready.

If you need emergency contraception services or personalised advice, we are here to help. Book an appointment and visit us in Haria, Harland, Northcote, or Tooting.