Emergency Contraception: Everything You Need to Know

At Aya Contigo, we believe knowledge is power. When it comes to sexual and reproductive health, knowledge means autonomy, freedom, and the right to decide about our bodies and our life projects. Emergency contraception (EC) is a crucial tool on this path to autonomy, and today we want to talk about it clearly and without taboos.

What Is Emergency Contraception?

Emergency contraception, commonly known as the “morning-after pill”, is a hormonal method used after unprotected sex to prevent an unintended pregnancy.

It is important to clarify: it is not an abortion pill. Its main function is to delay or inhibit ovulation — if there is no egg released, there is no fertilization.

When Should You Use It?

Sexual life is diverse, and sometimes accidents happen. EC is designed for these exceptional situations:

• Condom breakage or incorrect use: it broke, slipped, or wasn’t used.

• Mistakes with regular contraceptives: forgetting two or more birth control pills, missing your injection date, etc.

• Sexual assault: in these cases, access to EC is an urgent health right.

• Failure of other methods: such as an intrauterine device (IUD) displacement.

  
  

👉 Using emergency contraception is not a failure — it’s a responsible decision when facing an unexpected situation. Leaving stigma and guilt behind is also an act of self-care.

Types of Emergency Contraception

There are two main types available:

1. Ulipristal acetate pill

   • The most effective method.

   • Can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after unprotected sex.

   • Requires a prescription in many countries but is highly effective.

2. Levonorgestrel pill

   • The most common and widely available.

   • Can be taken up to 72 hours (3 days), but is more effective the sooner it is taken.

   • Over-the-counter in many countries, without prescription.

     
     

⚠️ Important: Emergency contraception does not protect against STIs (sexually transmitted infections). The only method that provides double protection (pregnancy + STIs) is the male or female condom. That’s why EC is a plan B, not a substitute for regular protection.

Rights, Access, and Realities

Talking about EC is also about reproductive rights:

• Right to information: You deserve to know what it is, how it works, and where to get it.

• Barrier-free access: In many Latin American countries, EC is a right. Pharmacies must provide it without requiring a prescription or moral judgment.

• For everyone: Anyone with the ability to get pregnant has the right to EC — regardless of age, gender identity, or sexual orientation. This includes adolescents and survivors of sexual violence, who must receive priority, discrimination-free care.

  
  

🚫 Myth-busting:

• EC does not affect future fertility.

• It is not a “chemical abortion.”

• Using it once does not mean you should or will rely on it every time.

What to Expect After Taking EC

• Body reactions: It’s normal to have irregular bleeding, or for your next period to come earlier or later. If your period is delayed more than a week, take a pregnancy test.

• Not long-term protection: EC won’t protect you during the next sexual encounters.

• Consult a health professional: This is a great opportunity to discuss a regular contraceptive method that fits your body and lifestyle.

  
  

In Conclusion: Your Body, Your Choice

Emergency contraception is not just a pill — it’s a public health right, a tool for reproductive justice, and an act of autonomy. Knowing it exists, understanding how it works, and knowing that it’s available for you is part of exercising your sexual freedom.

🌈 Need to talk about your options? Download Aya Contigo app or access it from your browser. Our care team is ready to listen and support you in a safe, confidential, and stigma-free space.

We're here for you.