Emergency contraceptive treatment (ECT) is a method used to prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure (e.g., a broken condom or missed birth control pills). It is not meant to replace regular contraception but serves as a backup option to reduce the risk of pregnancy.

• Commonly referred to as the "morning-after pill."
• Options Include:
  • Levonorgestrel-based pills (e.g., Plan B One-Step, Take Action):
    • Most effective when taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex.
    • Available over the counter in many countries.
  • Ulipristal acetate (e.g., Ella):
    • Requires a prescription.
    • Can be taken up to 5 days (120 hours) after unprotected sex.

More effective than levonorgestrel pills, especially closer to ovulation.

• They prevent or delay ovulation, ensuring that no egg is available for fertilization.
• They may also interfere with sperm function or prevent fertilization.
• Copper IUDs can prevent implantation of a fertilized egg, but emergency contraception does not terminate an existing pregnancy.

Levonorgestrel Pills: Reduce the risk of pregnancy by 75–89% when taken promptly.

• Ulipristal Acetate Pills: About 85% effective, with consistent effectiveness up to 5 days.

·  Copper IUD: Over 99% effective when inserted within 5 days

• Unprotected sex.
• Contraceptive failure (e.g., condom breakage, missed birth control pills).
• Sexual assault without contraceptive use.