Who can use emergency contraception?

Emergency contraception is intended for situations such as sex without contraception, a broken or slipped condom, missed pills or sexual assault without effective contraceptive cover. Age, weight or a health condition should not be used as a reason to delay seeking advice.

Broad eligibility, individual choice

The World Health Organization states that people of reproductive age may need emergency contraception and that there are no absolute medical contraindications to emergency contraceptive pills. That does not make every product identical. Timing, medicines, severe liver disease, breastfeeding, pregnancy possibility and the ability to use a copper IUD still shape the choice.

Body weight and uncertainty

Evidence about reduced effectiveness of some oral methods at higher body weight has been debated and reflected differently in product information. EMA concluded that levonorgestrel and ulipristal emergency contraceptives remain suitable regardless of body weight, while advising use as soon as possible. A copper IUD remains the most effective option and can be discussed when accessible.

Sexual assault and safeguarding

After sexual assault, emergency contraception may be one part of care alongside support, STI assessment, HIV PEP when indicated and forensic choices. You deserve trauma-informed help. If possible, contact a specialist service or emergency department promptly; the service can explain confidentiality, safeguarding and reporting choices, which can vary by age and country.

When to seek help

Emergency contraception is time-sensitive. Seek a pharmacy, sexual-health service or clinician as soon as possible rather than waiting for symptoms. Urgent in-person care is needed for severe one-sided or lower abdominal pain, collapse, very heavy bleeding or a severe allergic reaction. Emergency contraception does not treat an established pregnancy and does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.

What to prepare for a medical review

Be ready to share when each episode of unprotected sex happened, the first day of the last period, usual cycle length, the contraception that failed, current medicines and supplements, breastfeeding, and whether a period was already late. These details help a professional compare oral options with a copper IUD and explain when regular contraception can be restarted.

A calm next step

If you think you may need emergency contraception, seek help today. A professional can explain what fits without judgement and help plan pregnancy testing, STI care and ongoing contraception.

Clinical sources used: World Health Organization emergency-contraception fact sheet and European Medicines Agency product information for ulipristal acetate.