Alternative methods

Emergency Contraception
Emergency contraception, or emergency birth control, is used to keep a woman from getting pregnant when she has had unprotected vaginal sex. It can also be used if the barrier birth control that was used failed. It works best if taken within 72 hours of unprotected sex. It consists of taking two doses of hormonal pills 12 hours apart. The pills are 75 to 89 percent effective in preventing pregnancy.

Another type of emergency contraception is having the Copper T IUD put into your uterus (womb) within seven days of unprotected sex. This method is 99.9 percent effective in preventing pregnancy and can be taken out after the woman's next period. If you are already pregnant, emergency contraception will NOT work. Emergency contraception should never be used as a regular method of birth control.

Foams or Gels
Foam, gel, cream, film, suppository, or tablets with spermicide (a chemical that kills sperm) are placed in the vagina no more than one hour before sex. They work by killing sperm. They are left in place at least six to eight hours after sex. Some spermicides also have Nonoxynol-9, which can protect you from gonorrhea and chlamydia. Nonoxynol-9 will not protect you from HIV. Spermicides are about 74% effective in preventing pregnancy.

IUD (Intrauterine Device)
An IUD is a small plastic or copper “T” shaped device that is placed inside the uterus and prevents sperm from reaching the woman's egg. It lasts from several months up to 10 years. The IUD is 98 to 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy. When inserted, they take affect right away. You can expect to have some cramping within the first few days after insertion. During the first 3-6 months after insertion, you may experience frequent spotting or light bleeding in addition to your monthly menstrual period. Your monthly period may become irregular. Some women may have heavy bleeding.