Remember, your medical records are confidential and your privacy is protected by law, so it would be illegal for your doctor to tell anyone - even your parents - without your permission.

EBC Pills

There are two types of EBC pills: combination estrogen-progestin pills, and progestin-only pills.

Combination Estrogen-Progestin EBC Pills (such as Preven)

Combination estrogen-progestin EBC pills are based on the regimen developed by Dr. Yezpe in 1974. The most common pill of this type is sold as the 'Preven Emergency Contraception Kit'. This type of EBC pill causes nausea in 30-50 percent of women, and vomiting in 15-25 percent of women. Taking anti-nausea or anti-emetic medication beforehand may reduce these side effects. Women who take this type of EBC pill may also experience breast tenderness, fatigue, abdominal pain, irregular bleeding, headaches, and dizziness. These side effects usually subside 1-2 days after the second EBC pill has been taken.

Progestin-Only EBC Pills (such as Plan B)

Progestin-only EBC pills were approved by the FDA in 1999. The most common pill of this type is sold as Plan B. This type of EBC pill is newer and has fewer side effects than pills such as Preven. Studies also suggest that they more effective than Preven as well. This type of EBC pill causes nausea in approximately 25 percent of the women who take it, and vomiting in 5-10 percent.

In 10-15 percent of women treated, EBC pills alter the length and timing of the next menstrual period, as well as the amount of menstrual flow. The effect is usually minor. Studies suggest that if EBC pills are used frequently, periods may become irregular and unpredictable on a more permanent basis.

EBC IUD (intrauterine device) Insertion

Side effects of emergency birth control IUD insertion may include abdominal pain, vaginal bleeding or spotting, heavy menstrual flow, cramping, uterine puncture, and infection. IUDs can cause infections, which can lead to pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). PID can cause infertility.

IUDs may also interfere with fertility by stimulating an auto-immune response, effectively turning the body's defenses against its own eggs and against sperm. Research suggests that these effects may be permanent in some cases, and for these and other reasons IUDs are not recommended for women who wish to have children in the future. IUDs are also not recommended for women who already have a sexually transmitted disease such as HIV, gonorrhea, or chlamydia.

Emergency birth control should only be used in emergencies, and not as a means of regular birth control. While EBC pills may be used safely more than once, research suggests that frequent use may cause long-term menstrual cycle irregularities. Additionally, EBC pills are less effective and more expensive than regular birth control pills.

You should consult your doctor or health care provider each time you are considering using EBC pills.

If you are sexually active you should strongly consider using regular birth control as your primary method of preventing pregnancy. Regular birth control pills are safe, simple, highly effective, and inexpensive. Talk to your doctor to learn more about your options.