Birth Control

Non-Hormonal Birth Control

Some websites and organizations claim that hormonal birth control is “unnatural” or “poison.” While this is false (hormonal birth control uses hormones that already exist in your body), some people might have medical or other reasons not to use hormonal contraceptives.

Diaphragm

Spermicide

Copper IUD

Surgical Sterilization

How to use it

ECPs are most effective within 72 hours (3 days) of having unprotected sex (about 88% effective in preventing pregnancy)

  1. The effectiveness drops to 50% taken 3-5 days after unprotected sex. 

  2. Take the pill by mouth with or without food. If you vomit within 2 hours, you may need another dose. 

  3. If you weigh over 165 pounds, levonorgestrel ECPs are less effective. Ella is effective up to 195 pounds, and copper IUDs are effective at any weight. Doubling your dose is not effective. 

  4. Your period might be later after taking an ECP. If you do not menstruate after three weeks after taking the pill, take a pregnancy test.

Learn more about Safer Sex