Many people and couples may experience unwanted pregnancies at some point in their life. Which tablet Is best for stopping unwanted pregnancy? This depends on a number of factors, including unprotected sexual activity, contraceptive failure, and other unanticipated events. A number of emergency contraceptive pills are now accessible due to current medical breakthroughs, offering safe and efficient alternatives for avoiding pregnancy following sexual activity. This comprehensive blog discusses emergency contraception, the various tablets that are available, their functions, efficacy, side effects, and how to pick the best one for you.

Understanding Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception (EC) refers to techniques of avoiding pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure (such a broken condom or missed birth control tablets). The main way that EC prevents or delays ovulation is by inhibiting fertilization.

Emergency contraception comes in two primary varieties:

• The most widely used and readily available are emergency contraceptive pills, or ECPs.

• Within five days following unprotected sex, a medical expert can put a copper intrauterine device (IUD), a non-hormonal alternative, into the uterus.

We address the topic, “Which tablet is best for stopping unwanted pregnancy?” with a primary focus on emergency contraceptive pills.

Types of Emergency Contraceptive Pills

Emergency contraceptive tablets come in two main varieties:

1. Levonorgestrel-based pills (Plan B, i-Pill, NorLevo, Take Action)

How it works: The synthetic hormone levonorgestrel slows or stops ovulation.

Availability: Without a prescription, it is available over-the-counter in several nations.

2. Ulipristal acetate (Ella, Unwanted-72, Delivra)

How it works: Unlike levonorgestrel, ulipristal acetate delays ovulation by blocking the hormone progesterone.

Effectiveness: Better than pills containing levonorgestrel, especially during the 72–120 hour period.

Availability: Depending on the nation, a prescription may be needed.

The response is contingent on a number of variables, including access, timing, and personal health.

Top Emergency Contraceptive Tablets in the Market

A comparison of common emergency contraception tablets can be seen below:

Which tablet is best for stopping unwanted pregnancy in light of this comparison? Pills containing levonorgestrel are handy and effective if taken within 72 hours. Ulipristal acetate provides superior protection if it has been more than three days.

When and How to Take Emergency Contraceptive Pills

Time Is Everything

The finest results from emergency contraceptive pills are obtained as soon as feasible. Over time, the efficacy decreases. For example:

• Taken in a day: 95% successful
• 85% effective when taken within 48–72 hours
• Effectiveness dramatically declines after 72 hours (except for Ulipristal).

The dosage

The majority of emergency contraceptive pills are single-dose, usually containing 30 mg of ulipristal acetate or 1.5 mg of levonorgestrel.

Alcohol and Food

Although there aren’t any hard rules about what you can and can’t eat or drink when taking these medications, taking them with meals may help reduce nausea, which is a typical side effect.

Are There Any Side Effects?

Although they are usually modest and transient, emergency contraception tablets might have negative effects like any other drug. Typical adverse effects consist of:

• Vomiting or feeling queasy
• A headache
• Lightheadedness
• Weariness
• Tenderness of the breasts
• Menstrual bleeding irregularities
• Early or delayed times

See a doctor if you throw up within two hours of taking the pill; you might need to take another dose.

Myths vs. Facts: Debunking Misconceptions

Let’s dispel a few widespread myths:

Myth: Abortion is caused by emergency contraceptive pills.

Fact: These medications stop pregnancy before it begins. They don’t end a pregnancy that already exists.

Myth: They can be used in place of conventional birth control.

Factual statement: Emergency contraception does not replace standard methods of birth control.

Myth: They impact fertility in the future.

Fact: There is no proof that emergency contraception has an impact on fertility over the long run.

Myth: It doesn’t work unless you take it immediately after sex.

Fact: Ulipristal and Levonorgestrel pills last up to five days and 72 hours, respectively, but the sooner the better.

Who Should Consider Taking Emergency Contraceptive Pills?

Emergency contraception should be taken into consideration if:

• You had sex without protection.
• Your typical contraceptive technique fails (e.g., broken condom, missing birth control pills)
• You were coerced into having sex.
• You misjudged your fertile window

Which tablet is best for stopping unwanted pregnancy? Make your decision depending on when you can take it, and if in doubt, seek advice from a healthcare professional.

When to Consult a Doctor

Although most people can safely use emergency contraception, see a doctor if:

• You suffer from liver illness.
• You’re experiencing inexplicable vaginal bleeding.
• You are nursing (you should stop breastfeeding for a week if you are on Ulipristal).
• You take drugs that could interfere with ECPs, such as antibiotics or some anticonvulsants.

For long-term protection, a doctor can also assist you in selecting the best type of contraception.

Long-Term Birth Control Options

Emergency contraception is not a routine procedure; it is a safety net. It’s time to look into regular contraceptive choices like the following if you find yourself taking emergency pills more than once or twice:

• Pills for oral contraception
• IUDs, or intrauterine devices
• Implants for contraception
• Male and female condoms
• Contraceptives that can be injected
• Rings around the vagina or patches

Better protection and peace of mind are therefore guaranteed.

Cost and Accessibility

Location and brand have an impact on cost:

• Pills like i-Pill and Unwanted-72 cost between ₹100 and ₹150 in India.
• While Ella may cost a little more and frequently needs a prescription, Plan B costs roughly $40 to $50 over-the-counter in the USA.
• Emergency contraception is provided for free in many nations via NGOs or public health systems.

Think about accessibility, cost, and regional laws before deciding which tablet is ideal for preventing unintended pregnancies.

Cultural and Legal Perspectives

Access to emergency contraception is becoming better in many regions of the world. However, access may be hampered by legislative limitations, cultural stigma, or a lack of education.

ECPs can be easily purchased online or over-the-counter in progressive areas.

Women may experience humiliation or condemnation in conservative settings.

Around the world, initiatives are being made to increase access, increase awareness, and give people more reproductive choices.

Conclusion

Pills that include levonorgestrel, such as Plan B, i-Pill, or Unwanted-72, are good choices if you have had unprotected sex within the last 72 hours. Ulipristal acetate (Ella) is a preferable option if more than three days have gone by or if you require more potent protection.

The response depends on the circumstances. Here is a little guide, though:

• In a day? Take Action, Plan B, or i-Pill.
• In a span of seventy-two hours? The above is still safe to use.
• Over seventy-two hours? Select Ulipristal acetate, such as Ella, or speak with a physician.
• Uncertain of the time or state of your health? Consult a medical professional.

Keep in mind that emergency contraception is not your first line of defense, but rather your last.

Accessibility, health considerations, and timing all influence the choice of emergency contraceptive pill. You can take charge of your reproductive health and make an informed choice if you are aware of your options. And if in doubt, consult your physician rather than the internet.

The ideal option is the one that suits your particular circumstances and is taken as soon as possible, so keep that in mind the next time you’re wondering, “Which tablet is best for stopping unwanted pregnancy?”