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contraception : emergency contraception
Emergency Contraceptive Insertion of the Copper T Intrauterine Device (IUD)
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emergency 		For up to 7 days after unprotected intercourse, you can have an intrauterine device (IUD) inserted to keep you from getting pregnant. When used after unprotected sex, the Copper T 380 A IUD is inserted into the uterus. It prevents implantation of a fertilized egg (if an egg was fertilized by the unprotected sex).


Complete information about this emergency contraceptive is available from your clinician.

50% of the 3.5 million unintended pregnancies each year in the U.S. could be prevented by the use of emergency contraception. You need to know in advance that there is something you can do if a condom breaks or you are forced to have sex. It is much better to use a contraceptive at the time of intercourse (condoms, pills, or even withdrawal), but if you have unprotected sex, emergency insertion of an IUD will reduce your chance of getting pregnant.

Advantages:
  • The emergency IUD can be used for up to 7 days after unprotected sex.
  • It is more effective than emergency contraceptive pills. If 1000 women have this IUD inserted after unprotected sex, only one will become pregnant.
  • Once in place, the IUD can be used for at least 10 years as an effective contraceptive.
  • The IUD can be used by some women who cannot take emergency contraceptive pills.
Disadvantages:
  • You may have some cramping or pain at the time of or just after insertion of the IUD.
  • If you leave the IUD in place, it may cause irregular periods or more cramping with periods.
  • IUDs offer no protection against sexually transmitted infections. Use a condom if infection is a possibility.
  • There is a high initial cost of insertion of the Copper T. However, over time it becomes an extremely cost-effective contraceptive.
  • The IUD is not avaliable without a prescription. Not all clinicians insert IUDs.


Where can I get an IUD inserted after unprotected sex?
For 72 hours AFTER unprotected sex, you can take emergency contraceptive pills to avoid becoming pregnant. For up to 7 days AFTER unprotected sex, you can have an IUD put in. Not all clinicians know about emergency contraception. If you want more information or would like the phone numbers of clinicians near you who prescribe emergency contraception, CALL the toll-free hotline 1-888-NOT-2-LATE or 1-800-584-9911. Some of these sources of help are free. 		  emergency contraception
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Last Update: 09/10/2004
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