Better Health Channel
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
betterhealth.vic.gov.au Department of Health
  • Emergency contraception can prevent an unintended pregnancy after having unprotected sex.
  • The copper IUD is the most effective method of emergency contraception and can be used as very effective ongoing contraception for up to 10 years. 
  • The copper IUD can be inserted up to 5 days after unprotected sex.
  • There are 2 types of emergency contraception pills – levonorgestrel and ulipristal acetate (sold as EllaOne™). Both are available without a prescription.
  • Emergency contraception pills are around 85% effective in preventing an unintended pregnancy. Ulipristal acetate is more effective than levonorgestrel.
  • The emergency contraceptive pill should be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex. 
  • Levonorgestrel is intended to be taken up to 4 days after unprotected sex. 
  • Ulipristal acetate is intended to be taken up to 5 days after unprotected sex.
  • Condoms give the best available protection against sexually transmissible infections (STIs).

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Content on this website is provided for information purposes only. Information about a therapy, service, product or treatment does not in any way endorse or support such therapy, service, product or treatment and is not intended to replace advice from your doctor or other registered health professional. The information and materials contained on this website are not intended to constitute a comprehensive guide concerning all aspects of the therapy, product or treatment described on the website. All users are urged to always seek advice from a registered health care professional for diagnosis and answers to their medical questions and to ascertain whether the particular therapy, service, product or treatment described on the website is suitable in their circumstances. The State of Victoria and the Department of Health shall not bear any liability for reliance by any user on the materials contained on this website.

Reviewed on: 20-03-2023