The newest and best method of emergency contraception is called Plan B. It consists of two tablets of 0.75 mg of levonorgestrel taken 12 hours apart. It is almost 90% effective in preventing pregnancy and has virtually no side effects.

Another option, used for many years, is taking regular birth control pills within 72 hours of unprotected sexual intercourse. This is at least 75% effective in preventing pregnancy.

Advantages include:

• You can greatly reduce the chance of unplanned pregnancy.
• Many doctors and clinics can provide these for you. There is a good possibility that one of your girlfriends has the pills you need but you shouldn't get them that way.

Disadvantages include:

• Pregnancy can still occur.
• Some women get dizzy or nauseated from taking them.

What and how to use:

• Lo/Ovral, Nordette or Levlen: 4 pills at one time, then 4 more 12 hours later, or
• Triphasil or Tri-Levlen (only use yellow pills): take 4, then 4 more in 12 hours, or
• Alesse: 5 pills at one time, then 5 more 12 hours later.

You can also try danazol (Danocrine): 600 mg once. There is less data on this regimen.

The sooner you take any of these after unprotected intercourse, the more likely they are to work.

An IUD may be inserted anytime within one week of unprotected intercourse. It will be more than 90% effective in preventing pregnancy.