There is a need to emphasise that success of Emergency Contraception lies mainly on its correct and prompt use. The pills have to be taken within 72 hours of unprotected sexual intercourse with a gap of 12 hours between each pill.

7. When is an emergency contraceptive pill ineffective?

It is important to note that pregnancy is established only after the fertilized egg attaches itself to the womb. This process ideally takes 5 -7 days and within this period pregnancy can be prevented.

Once this period is passed and pregnancy is established, an emergency contraceptive would be ineffective as it does not abort.

8. What is the success rate of emergency contraceptive pills?

Pregnancy can be avoided with a success rate of 75-99 percent depending on the time interval between intercourse and consumption of the pill.

9. Can an emergency contraceptive be used as a family planning option?

It cannot be treated as a family planning option. Emergency contraception may be necessitated in case of failure to use a contraceptive, contraceptive accident or misuse and unprotected exposure as in the case of a rape or sexual assault.

10. Can an ECP be used regularly?

An ECP should not be used regularly as a birth control option as it can cause severe nausea and vomiting, dizziness, disrupted menses and tender or sore breasts.

(With inputs from Dr. Jaydeep Gogtay, Medical Services, CIPLA)