Sexual Health - Emergency Contraception

Question 1

What is available for emergency contraception?

Answer 1

Levonorgestrel
Within 72 hours of UPSI

Ulipristal acetate (EllaOne)
Within 120 hours of UPSI

Copper coil
Within 120 hours of UPSI or 5 days of estimated ovulation

Question 2

What is the most effective emergency contraception?

Answer 2

Copper coil

Question 3

Does oral emergency contraception protect again further episodes of UPSI?

Answer 3

No

Both may be used more than once per menstrual cycle

Question 4

What needs to be considered when starting emergency contraception?

Answer 4

• Confidentiality
• STIs
• Future contraceptive plans
• Safeguarding, rape and abuse

Question 5

What is levonorgestrel emergency contraception?

Answer 5

Type of progestogen

Works by preventing or delaying ovulation

Not known to be harmful to pregnancy if it does occur

COCP or POP can be started immediately after

Extra contraception needed for 7 days on COCP or 2 days on POP

Question 6

What does is given for levonorgestrel?

Answer 6

1.5mg as a single dose
3mg in women over 70kg or BMI over 26

Question 7

What are the common side effects of levonorgestrel?

Answer 7

Nausea and vomiting (if within 3 hours, dose should be repeated)

Spotting and changes to period
Diarrhoea
Breast tenderness
Dizziness
Depressed mood

Question 8

What is Ulipristal acetate?

Answer 8

Selective progesterone receptor modulator (SERM)

Delays ovulation

Wait 5 days before starting COCP or POP after taking EllaOne

Extra contraception needed for first 7 days on COCP or 2 days on POP

Question 9

What are common side effects of Ulipristal acetate?

Answer 9

Nausea and vomiting, if within 3 hours repeat the dose

Spotting and changes to menstrual period
Abdominal or pelvic pain
Back pain
Mood changes
Headache
Dizziness
Breast tenderness

Question 10

What restrictions are there after EllaOne use?

Answer 10

Avoid breastfeeding for 1 week
Avoid in severe asthma