Emergency contraceptive pills may help prevent pregnancy in urgent situations but should not be used as a “regular method” instead of primary contraception because they are less effective than other methods and may have long-term effects on the body if used frequently.
What are emergency contraceptive pills?
- They are pills used after unprotected sex or when a condom breaks/slips.
- They help prevent ovulation or the implantation of a fertilized egg.
- They should be taken as soon as possible after intercourse:
- Formula 1 pill: Within 72 hours.
- Formula 2 pills:
- Take 2 pills together within 72 hours.
- Or take the first pill within 72 hours, the second pill 12 hours after the first.
When can they be used? Only in emergencies, such as:
- Forgetting to take monthly birth control pills for several days.
- Condom breakage/leakage.
- Unintentional intercourse.
Why shouldn’t they be used frequently?
- The effectiveness of emergency contraceptive pills is less than regular contraception methods such as monthly pills, injections, implants, IUDs, etc.
- They may cause menstrual irregularities, dizziness, nausea, abdominal pain, and spotting.
- If used frequently, they may disrupt the body and increase unnecessary stress.
- They cannot prevent sexually transmitted infections.
Better alternatives If you have regular intercourse or are not ready to have children, you should plan to use safe contraception methods such as:
- Monthly birth control pills.
- Condoms.
- Implants, injections, or IUDs.
Summary: Emergency contraceptive pills are for “emergency use only” and should not be used regularly because they are “too emergency” to be used often. Remember, “prevention is better than cure.”
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