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Emergency contraception: a review.

J Corbelli¹, E Bimla Schwarz

¹Department of Medicine University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, MA, USA - corbellija@upmc.edu.

Minerva Ginecologica

|October 15, 2014

Summary

Emergency contraception (EC) prevents pregnancy after unprotected sex and is safe for all ages. Ulipristal acetate is the most effective oral EC, while copper IUDs offer superior protection, especially for those who are overweight.

Area of Science:

Reproductive Health
Pharmacology
Contraception

Background:

Emergency contraception (EC) provides a crucial method for preventing pregnancy post-intercourse.
Available EC options include ulipristal acetate (UPA) and levonorgestrel pills, as well as copper intrauterine devices (IUDs).
EC is safe for all ages and has no contraindications, nor does it cause abortion or harm existing pregnancies.

Purpose of the Study:

To review the efficacy and accessibility of current emergency contraception methods.
To highlight the effectiveness of ulipristal acetate and copper IUDs compared to levonorgestrel.
To emphasize the importance of timely EC access and counseling for ongoing contraception.

Main Methods:

Review of existing literature and clinical guidelines on emergency contraception.

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Comparison of the effectiveness of different EC methods, including oral pills and IUDs.

Analysis of accessibility factors, such as prescription requirements and over-the-counter availability.

Main Results:

Ulipristal acetate (UPA) is the most effective oral emergency contraceptive pill.
Copper IUDs are more effective than UPA or levonorgestrel and are recommended for women who are overweight or obese.
Levonorgestrel EC pills are available over-the-counter in the US without age restrictions, while UPA requires a prescription.

Conclusions:

EC is a safe and vital reproductive health service for preventing unintended pregnancies.
Ulipristal acetate and copper IUDs represent more effective EC options, particularly for certain populations.
Continued education and accessible services are essential to promote prompt and appropriate use of emergency contraception.