What is the cheapest emergency contraceptive?

Accidents happen, and sometimes that means you’ll need emergency contraception. Whether a condom broke, you skipped a day on your birth control pills or forgot to take them altogether – there are so many ways to find yourself in this position. But what can you do when faced with an unplanned pregnancy?

Lucky for us, science has provided an array of options that we can choose from when the unexpected happens – but which one works best for our budget? It’s easy to assume that all emergency contraceptives are created equal; well think again! This article will highlight some excellent cheaper alternatives.

Plan B One-Step

Plan B One-Step is among the most famous types of morning-after pills used to prevent unwanted pregnancies after unprotected sex. Its active ingredient levonorgestrel (LNG), works by blocking ovulation and disrupting fertilization.

This drug costs between $30-$60 depending on where it’s purchased. You don’t need any prescription as it’s available over-the-counter(OTC). The earlier taken, the better its effectiveness rates: Around 95% if taken within 24 hours ; about 85% if consumed within 72 hours of intercourse.

While pharmacies might have at least one brand of this pill available readily , remember always verify its quality first because cheap could also mean counterfeited products .

Are There Side Effects?

Some common side effects associated with Plan B use include:

  • Nausea
  • Headaches
  • Vomiting

These symptoms tend not to last longer than a couple few days though they should subside eventually .

ella

ella is another type of emergency contraceptive typically sold via prescription-only route . Similar to Plan B mentioned above its active substance (ulipristal acetate) prevents eggs release from ovaries temporarily halting implantation .

Having said that, ella works for a more extended window than other ECs — up to 5 days after having unprotected sex. Statistics show that ella is around 98% effective when taken on the first day of unprotected sex.

What makes this option unique? It’s still ranked as one of the most expensive morning-after pills available today, costing an average user $65 to purchase .

What Are Ella Side Effects?

As with all medications, using ella may result in adverse effects . Some examples are:

  • Headaches
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea

Copper Intrauterine Device (IUD)

An IUD or copper coil, is an emergency contraceptive and long-term birth control device option that fits inside your uterus . It continuously releases coppere ions into cervical mucus facilitate stopping fertilization . The good news? Once inserted , it tends to last for up to ten years!

When purchased directly from clinics without any insurance coverage , these options can cost from $500-$1000; so why make this substantial investment? Well – here’s one reason – they boast a success rate over 99%.

Cu-IUD Side-Effects

Among some common side-effects associated with using Cu-IUD contraception:

  • Bleeding
  • Cramping
  • Spotting

It turns out there are several types of female contraceptives you can try if need be. Here’s a quick rundown before heading out:

Name Active Ingredient(s) Effectiveness Rate & Timing Cost
Plan B One-Step Levonorgestrel Around 85% at 3 Days Post Unprotected Sex ;Stronger within First 24 Hours Between $30 – $60
ela ulipristal acetate around 98% if taken on the first day within fertile window Around $65.
Cu-IUD Copper ions More than 99%. Between $500 – $1000 (One-Time Purchase)

Final Thoughts

Emergency contraceptives should be in labeling for every female, no question about it . Accidents happen and undetected scenarios don’t leave us with many choices but to resort to them.

Consider that while cost might be a significant factor to consider when looking at emergency contraceptive options, there are so many other things you should keep in mind too; like safety measures (always purchase from approved & verified pharmacies) , efficiency timing or possible negative impacts.

It’s your body – It’s your choice!

Random Posts