Beyond the Pill

The "morning after" pill, also known as emergency contraceptive, is still not as well known as other methods available to women today. Dr. Jennifer Kacmar, Assistant Professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Brown Medical School/Women and Infants' Hospital of Rhode Island Providence, Rhode Island, says the method is becoming more popular and she sees about 10 patients a month who specifically ask for emergency contraception, which is a single pill containing progestin. "Most patients are actually using another form of birth control, such as condoms, but have an event that makes them feel at higher risk (condom breakage, for instance)," says Dr. Kacmar. "It's a safe method for any woman who has unprotected intercourse when used within seventy-two hours." The pill works by preventing the release of the egg, or fertilization, or implantation. While highly effective, this method will not work if you are already pregnant, but does not hurt the fetus if you are, according to www.contraceptive.net. Common side effects include nausea and vomiting. This is available without a prescription in most areas, as long as you are older than 17. Call your pharmacist for access.