[Contraception the "morning after." A too little used opportunity]

With the constant high number of abortions, it seems that the propagation of the still little known post coital contraception--as an emergency "brake" the morning after--is urgently necessary. The three known hormonal methods, i.e. the oestrogen method, the gestagen method and the combination method as well as the intentional post coital insertion of an intra uterine device, are discussed as far as the application, advantages and disadvantages are concerned. The combination method, i.e. the application of 0,2 mg ethinylestradiol and 2,0 mg norgestrel seems to be the most recommendable, as it combines a high contraceptive assurance with good tolerance and use. The legal and moral considerations for post coital contraception are discussed.