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Introduction

Patients with recent unprotected intercourse (due to no contraception used, due to a contraception error [eg, broken condom, missed pills], or after sexual assault) may be candidates for postcoital or emergency contraception ( Table 1) for pregnancy prevention.

Prior to the use of emergency contraception, patients require a negative pregnancy test because these methods are used to prevent ovulation and/or implantation, not terminate an existing pregnancy (ie, they are not abortifacients).

Although each method varies in the length of time that they are effective following unprotected intercourse, each is most effective immediately after intercourse and should be initiated as soon as possible.

Levonorgestrel pill (Plan B)

The levonorgestrel pill (commonly known as Plan B) is the most readily available form of emergency contraception because it can be purchased without a prescription.

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Figures

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Figure 1

Tables

Table 1
Table 2