Re: Birth Control

Emergency contraceptives (ECP's) or the morning after pill are a wonderful backup along with condoms. Many people have the misconception that ECP's are a form of early abortion. In reality they thicken the mucous in the cervix, possibly blocking sperm, stop ovulation, or can possibly inhibit implantation. They cannot end an existing pregnancy. These pills are hormonal but because they are a one time thing, the hormones are out of the system within 24 hours. They can be used within five days or 120 hours after intercourse. Nice thing to have if a condom breaks or comes off. They can be obtained at some doctor's offices or pharmacies, family planning clinics and any Planned Parenthood. As far as IUD's, they are actually a very safe method of birth control for a woman in a monogamous relationship (women at risk of sexually transmitted infections are not a good candidate because the device can spread infections more rapidly- not including infections such as yeast or bacterial vaginosis that are not STI's) There are IUD's available without hormones so it is a great drug free option. It is best to speak with your clinician on possible risks, which are minimal. Tweet