Morning-After Pill in Nigeria: What to Know About Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception, often called the morning-after pill, can prevent pregnancy after unprotected sex, a broken or slipped condom, or missed contraceptive pills. It works best the sooner you take it. This guide explains how the morning-after pill works, which types are available in Nigeria, how and when to take it, and what to expect.

What is emergency contraception?

Emergency contraception is used after sex to lower the chance of pregnancy. There are two main types:

• Emergency contraceptive pills (the morning-after pill)
• The copper IUD (coil), a small device a trained health worker places in the womb. It is the most effective form of emergency contraception and can then be kept as long-term contraception.

Types of morning-after pill

Levonorgestrel (1.5 mg). This is the most common type in Nigeria, sold under brand names such as Postinor. It is a single 1.5 mg tablet, or two 0.75 mg tablets in some packs. It is most effective when taken within 72 hours (3 days) of unprotected sex.

Ulipristal acetate (30 mg). This pill can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days) after sex and stays more effective than levonorgestrel later in that window. It may be harder to find in Nigerian pharmacies.

Ordinary daily contraceptive pills are not the same as emergency pills. Do not try to make your own emergency dose from regular pills without a health worker’s guidance.

How effective is the morning-after pill?

• It does not work 100% of the time, but it greatly reduces the chance of pregnancy.
• The sooner you take it, the better it works. Ideally take it within 24 hours.
• Levonorgestrel may be less effective in women with a higher body weight. Ulipristal or a copper IUD may be better options, so ask a health worker.
• The copper IUD is the most effective option, preventing more than 99% of pregnancies when fitted within 5 days.

How the morning-after pill works

Emergency contraceptive pills mainly work by delaying or preventing ovulation (the release of an egg). They are not abortion pills and will not end an existing pregnancy or harm one that has already started.

How to take it

1. Take the pill as soon as possible after unprotected sex.
2. If you vomit within 3 hours of taking it, you will need another dose. Speak to a pharmacist or doctor.
3. Use condoms or another method until your next period, as the pill does not protect you for the rest of your cycle.
4. If your period is more than 7 days late, or is unusually light or short, take a pregnancy test.

Side effects

Most people have no serious side effects. Some notice:

• Nausea or stomach ache
• Headache or tiredness
• Breast tenderness
• Spotting, or a period that comes earlier or later than expected

See a doctor if you have severe lower abdominal pain, which can rarely be a sign of an ectopic pregnancy.

Important things to know

• It does not protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). If you may have been exposed to an STI, get tested. Read about gonorrhoea and STI risks.
• It does not affect your future fertility, even if you have used it before.
• It is not meant for regular use. If you need emergency contraception often, talk to a health worker about a regular method such as the pill, injection, implant or IUD.
• After sexual assault, seek medical care as soon as possible. A health worker can provide emergency contraception, STI and HIV prevention medicines, and support.

Where to get the morning-after pill in Nigeria

Levonorgestrel emergency pills are sold in most pharmacies without a prescription. Buy from a registered pharmacy to avoid fake products, and check the expiry date. A pharmacist or doctor can also advise you on the best option and on long-term contraception.

Frequently asked questions

How long after sex can I take the morning-after pill?
Levonorgestrel works best within 72 hours. Ulipristal can be taken up to 120 hours (5 days). Either works better the sooner you take it.

Can the morning-after pill cause abortion?
No. It prevents or delays ovulation and does not end an existing pregnancy.

Will the morning-after pill delay my period?
It can make your next period come earlier or later than usual. If it is more than 7 days late, take a pregnancy test.

Does the morning-after pill prevent STIs?
No. Only condoms reduce the risk of STIs.

Can I take the morning-after pill twice in one cycle?
Levonorgestrel can be used more than once in a cycle if needed, but it is less effective than regular contraception. Speak to a health worker about a long-term method.

This article is for general information and does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist.

Get a Health Plan