Approach to selection of emergency contraception after unprotected intercourse

UPI: unprotected intercourse; EC: emergency contraception; IUD: intrauterine device; BMI: body mass index; LNG: levonorgestrel; DMPA: depot medroxyprogesterone acetate; UPA: ulipristal acetate.
* Pregnancy rates are 0.1% for the copper IUD, up to 1.8% for UPA, and up to 2.6% for LNG.
¶ Information on IUD device types, candidates, and device selection can be found in related UpToDate content.
Δ Contraceptive failure can include missing more than one dose of oral contraceptive pills; failure to resume the DMPA injection, patch, or vaginal ring at the correct time; having a diaphragm, cervical cap, or contraceptive sponge slip; or having a condom break.
◊ Treatment with UPA requires a prescription.
§ After receiving EC, the patient can expect her period within three weeks. Patients who do not have a period after three weeks should perform a pregnancy test.
¥ For patients in the United States, oral LNG is available over-the-counter for individuals ages 17 and older. Individuals younger than age 17 may require a prescription, which varies by state.