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Imagine you’ve just realized you missed protection. Panic sets in, but the good news is there are several options that can stop an unwanted pregnancy. This guide breaks down the I-Pill comparison you’ve been looking for, showing how the I-Pill (Levonorgestrel) stacks up against its most common rivals.
I-Pill (Levonorgestrel) is a single‑dose emergency contraceptive pill that contains 1.5 mg of levonorgestrel, a synthetic progestogen. It was first approved in the UK in 1999 and is now sold over the counter in pharmacies and some supermarkets. The pill is designed to be taken as soon as possible after unprotected sex, and it remains effective up to 72 hours, though efficacy drops the longer you wait.
Levonorgestrel mainly prevents or delays ovulation. It doesn’t terminate an existing pregnancy, which is why it’s classified as a contraceptive, not an abortifacient. By keeping the egg from being released, sperm can’t meet it, and fertilisation never happens. If fertilisation has already occurred, the hormone’s impact on the uterine lining may make implantation less likely, though that isn’t the primary mechanism.
While the I‑Pill is popular for its convenience, three other methods are frequently mentioned in clinics and on pharmacy shelves.
Ulipristal acetate is a selective progesterone receptor modulator (SPRM). A single 30 mg tablet can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after intercourse, giving it a longer window than levonorgestrel. It works by inhibiting or delaying ovulation even when the LH surge has started, which makes it the most effective pill‑based emergency contraceptive in the later part of the timeframe.
The copper intra‑uterine device can be inserted by a qualified clinician within 120 hours of unprotected sex. Once in place, copper ions create an inflammatory reaction that is toxic to sperm and eggs, preventing fertilisation. It’s the only non‑hormonal emergency method and, beyond the emergency window, provides ongoing contraception for up to 10 years.
The Yuzpe method uses a combination of regular birth‑control pills (usually 100 µg ethinyl estradiol + 1 mg levonorgestrel) taken in two doses 12 hours apart. It must be started within 72 hours and is less effective than both levonorgestrel and ulipristal acetate. Because it involves estrogen, it isn’t recommended for people with certain risk factors (e.g., migraine with aura, hypertension).
| Method | Typical Pregnancy Prevention Rate | Maximum Window After Intercourse | Prescription Needed (UK) | Common Side Effects | Approximate Cost (GBP) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| I‑Pill (Levonorgestrel) | 85 % (within 24 h) - 58 % (71‑72 h) | 72 hours | No | Nausea, fatigue, headache | £9‑£12 |
| Ulipristal acetate (Ella) | 98 % (up to 120 h) | 120 hours | Yes (pharmacy or GP) | Nausea, dizziness, delayed period | £20‑£25 |
| Copper IUD (Paragard) | >99 % | 120 hours (insertion) | Yes (requires clinician) | Cramping, spotting | £150‑£200 (including insertion) |
| Yuzpe regimen | ~85 % (if taken correctly) | 72 hours | No (over‑the‑counter combo pills) | Nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness | £5‑£8 (two tablets) |
Numbers above come from a mix of UK NHS data, the WHO’s emergency contraception guidelines, and large‑scale clinical trials. The key takeaway: ulipristal acetate and copper IUD hold a clear edge in the later part of the window.
All four options are considered safe for the vast majority of people, but each carries its own nuance.
When in doubt, a quick chat with a pharmacist or a GP can clarify which method aligns with your health history.
Affordability often decides what you actually pick. Here’s a quick rundown:
Remember that many sexual health clinics provide emergency contraception at no charge, especially for students or low‑income patients.
Picking a method isn’t just about numbers-personal circumstances matter.
Write down the factors that matter most to you, then compare them against the table above. If you’re still unsure, a 5‑minute call to your local pharmacy can give you a tailored recommendation.
No. The I‑Pill works before implantation. If a fertilized egg has already implanted, the pill has no effect on an existing pregnancy.
Yes. You need a prescription from a GP or a pharmacist‑initiated patient‑specific supply. Some sexual‑health clinics can provide it without a formal GP prescription.
Immediately. Once the device is correctly placed, it prevents fertilisation from that point forward.
Yes, levonorgestrel is considered safe while breastfeeding. It passes into breast milk in very small amounts and does not affect milk production.
Take another dose of the I‑Pill as soon as possible. If you’re unable to keep medication down, seek advice from a pharmacist or call your local NHS 111 service.
Emergency contraception can feel overwhelming, but the facts are simple: the sooner you act, the better your chances of preventing an unwanted pregnancy. Whether you reach for the over‑the‑counter I‑Pill, ask a pharmacist for ulipristal acetate, or consider a copper IUD, you’re taking control of your reproductive health.
Overall, the guide offers a clear snapshot of the main emergency‑contraception options. It outlines the I‑Pill’s efficacy window, cost and side‑effects in plain language. The table makes the comparison easy to scan, especially for someone who needs quick facts. It also flags the situations where a copper IUD or ulipristal acetate become preferable. For a reader looking for a concise overview, this is a solid reference.
Wow, another oversimplified rundown that misses the nuance 😒
