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After unintended unprotected intercourse, the morning after pill, or emergency contraception, reduce the risk of an unwanted pregnancy. The morning after pills is simply high-dose birth control pills that prevent pregnancy in the same way birth control pills taken as pre-intercourse conception do, albeit for a short window of time. Although it used to be necessary to get the morning after pill from a gynecologist, it can now be purchased over-the-counter from pharmacies. It can be taken up to three days after unprotected sex, but the earlier it is taken, the more effective it is. If you have had unprotected intercourse and are concerned about an unwanted pregnancy, here is a look at some of the benefits of using the morning after pill.

Patient explaining while doctor takes notes at a desk

Non-Invasive

The morning after pill works by preventing the ovary from releasing an egg so that it prevents a pregnancy from occurring rather than causing a pregnancy to be terminated. This means that the pill is completely non-invasive and does not require a follow-up visit with your gynecologist or any downtime. Women who take the morning after pill are able to continue with their normal activities right away.

Effective

When the morning after pill is taken correctly, it reduces the chances of unwanted pregnancy by between 80 and 90%. After taking the morning after pill, about two women in 100 will become pregnant, while approximately eight in 100 women will have a pregnancy after unprotected intercourse without the pill.

Availability

The morning after pill is easily available over-the-counter for men and women over the age of 18. There is no need to wait for a gynecologist appointment, which could reduce the effectiveness of the pill. Easy access means that women can take the pill as soon as possible.

After unprotected sex, in addition to taking steps to prevent pregnancy, you should also undergo STD testing, and when necessary, STD treatment. At Washington Surgi-Clinic, you can undergo STD testing in Washington, D.C. with complete patient confidentiality. To make an appointment, call (202) 659-9403.