When and how should emergency contraception be taken?

Question

Accepted Answer

Emergency contraception reduces the chance of pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure. Per WHO and FDA, there are three options with different recommended windows: a single-dose levonorgestrel pill within 72 hours (3 days), ulipristal acetate within 120 hours (5 days) and copper intrauterine device insertion within 120 hours (5 days). The sooner, the more effective. This calculator only shows objectively how much of each recommended window remains from the time you enter; it does not estimate effectiveness or recommend an option. Prescription rules and availability differ by country, and the right choice given your weight, other medications and health is for a pharmacist or doctor to decide. Contact a pharmacy, OB-GYN or public health clinic as soon as possible.