When it comes to pregnancy people have two thoughts, “How do I get pregnant?” and “How do I NOT get pregnant?” Your thoughts can change as your circumstances change. For those who do not want to get pregnant, preventative measures come into play but those don’t always work*.
With half of all pregnancies being unplanned* what is a girl to do?
Many women look to pills to help avoid an unexpected pregnancy but what are the differences between all the pills out there and how do you know which one would be best for you?
There are three main feminine pills.
- Birth Control Pill
How it works - The oral contraceptive pill works by preventing the ovary from releasing an egg, thickening the cervical mucus making it difficult for the sperm to reach the egg, and changing the lining of the uterus making implantation difficult.*
- Morning After Pill
How it works - LNG-EC pills (Plan B, Norlevo, Option 2, and Next Choice) all contain a progestin called levonorgestrel. The effectiveness of LNG-EC pills is highest when taken within 24 hours of unprotected sex and declines the later they are taken; but they can be taken up to five days later. It works by either: 1. Preventing ovulation so the egg does not get released. 2. Affecting the lining of the fallopian tubes so that sperm cannot reach the egg or 3. May irritate the lining of the uterus so that a fertilized egg is not able to implant. LNG-EC pills will not harm the fetus, should it not be able to prevent the pregnancy.*
- Medical Abortion Pill
How it works - Medical abortion uses a combination of medications (mifepristone and misoprostol) to end the pregnancy by inducing a miscarriage. The pills are available for those less than 9 weeks pregnant. The abortion pills work to end the pregnancy over 98% of the time. Around 2% of people will still need a uterine aspiration after using the pills if their pregnancy doesn’t end or if they have heavy bleeding.*
So the big question is, do you take a pill?
The decision to take any pill should be done under the consultation of a physician who knows your medical history. Not all pills work for all people. A physician is able to monitor you for complications and get you the care you need.
Make an informed decision.
Make sure to ask lots of questions. What are the pros and cons of taking this pill? What are the possible complications? What are the short-term and long-term side effects?
At KPCC we are happy to talk with you about your pregnancy options. What if you don’t want to take a pill? We can talk with you about your pill alternatives. A pill is not for everyone, so know that there are other options. What if you later regret taking a pill? We can talk to you about that as well. Read about your pregnancy options here.
Click HERE to contact us to book a confidential appointment.
*All information is referenced from The Society of Obstetricians and Gynecologists of Canada website https://www.sexandu.ca/contraception/
By: Elizabeth Sacrey, Executive Director