Emergency contraception
There are two emergency contraceptive methods: the emergency pill (previously called the Morning-after pill) and the emergency IUD (copper). They prevent pregnancy after risky sexual relations.
The emergency pill
Mode of action
This method contains one or more synthetic hormones. It works mainly by delaying ovulation and preventing the implantation of a fertilized ovum (egg) in the uterus.
*It does not protect future sexual relations.
Instructions for use
The instructions for use vary depending on the pill recommended by the healthcare professional. Nausea and vomiting are possible after taking the pill. A pharmacist can be consulted to see if anti-nausea and anti-vomiting medication might help.
A woman can take the emergency pill more than once since it is not dangerous for her health. However, it is not a contraceptive method but rather an emergency method.
Where can I get the emergency pill?
This pill is available free of charge from a doctor, a school nurse, CLSC, youth clinics, and several schools (secondary, college, and university).
It is also available in pharmacies without a medical prescription, and it is covered by prescription drug insurance; otherwise, it costs approximately $30.00.
In Quebec, girls under the age of 14 need a parent’s or legal guardian’s consent to obtain the emergency pill.
What happens after taking the emergency pill?
While waiting for your menstruation, using another contraceptive method is important since it does not keep you protected in your future relations.
Instructions for use
Insertion of the IUD is a simple and short procedure.
Sexual relations that take place after its insertion are protected from the risk of pregnancy, which is not the case with the emergency pill.
Where can I get the emergency IUD
To have a prescription and have the IUD inserted, you need to consult a doctor or a primary care specialized nurse practitioner.
In the Eastern Townships, the emergency IUD is available at the planning clinic (Clinique de planning de Sherbrooke).
The copper IUD is not covered by the public prescription drug insurance plan, and most private insurance companies do not reimburse it. Its price varies depending on the model and place of purchase. However, the insertion of the copper IUD is covered by the Quebec Health Insurance Plan (Assurance maladie du Québec).
In Quebec, girls under the age of 14 need a parent’s or legal guardian’s consent to obtain the emergency IUD.
What happens after the insertion of an emergency IUD?
The IUD can be kept as a contraceptive method. It ensures contraceptive protection for 5 to 10 years depending on the model. As with all contraceptive methods, the copper IUD is not 100% effective, so pregnancy may occur despite its use.