Emergency Contraceptive Pills (ECP)

Almost everyone can use emergency contraception. Even an individual who cannot use birth control pills containing estrogen can use Plan B® (levonorgestrel) or Ella® (ulipristal acetate) because there is no estrogen in these medications. If you know or suspect, you are pregnant you should not use emergency contraception.

Plan B® contains the hormone progestin and works by delaying the release of an egg from the ovaries.

You can purchase Plan B® at most pharmacies without a prescription or at the Sexual Health Centre. Plan B® works best when taken as soon as possible after unprotected sexual contact, preferably within three days (72 hours) and has some effectiveness up to five days (120 hours) after unprotected sexual contact. Plan B® may not be as effective in individual with a BMI ≥25.

Ella® is a selective progesterone receptor modulator and acts on the body’s hormones to delay the release of an egg from the ovaries.

Ella® is available at most pharmacies, by prescription only. Ella® can be used for emergency contraception up to 5 days after unprotected intercourse. Ella® may not be as effective in individual with a BMI ≥35.

• Oral emergency contraception is very safe and can be taken by almost everyone
• Oral emergency contraception will not cause harm if you are already pregnant

A copper IUD can be inserted within 7 days of unprotected intercourse. Please see the IUD fact sheet for further information or discuss with your health care provider.