An emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) is sometimes called “morning after” pill or postcoital contraceptive.

It is a backup option for contraceptive emergencies. It can help prevent an unintended pregnancy if taken as soon as possible within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex or contraceptive failure has occurred. It is more effective the sooner after unprotected sex it is taken.

It is not a regular contraceptive method and is intended for “emergency use” only.

It is not an abortion-inducing pill. It does not work if a woman is already pregnant.

Reference: Family Planning: A Global Handbook for Providers, WHO

Emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) is a backup option for contraceptive emergencies, when unprotected sex has occurred.

Being an emergency contraceptive pill, it can help prevent an unintended pregnancy if taken as soon as possible within 72 hours (3 days) after unprotected sex. It is more effective the sooner after unprotected sex it is taken.

It is not a regular contraceptive method and is intended for “emergency use” only.

It is not an abortion-inducing pill.

An emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) prevents the release of an egg from the ovary or delay its release by 5 to 7 days. By then, any sperm in the woman’s reproductive tract will have died, since sperm can survive there for only about 5 days.

If ovulation has occurred and the egg was fertilized, the ECP does not prevent implantation or disrupt an already established pregnancy. It is not an abortion-inducing medicine.

Reference: Family Planning: A Global Handbook for Providers, WHO

Because an emergency contraceptive pill (ECP):

• Can be managed by the woman herself

• Can be used immediately as and when needed

• Offers a second chance at preventing an unintended pregnancy

• Can be used to avoid a pregnancy if sex was forced or no contraception was used during sex

• Reduces the need for an abortion of an unwanted pregnancy

Reference: Family Planning: A Global Handbook for Providers, WHO

Duly's emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) is a white to off-white, circular, uncoated tablet.

Emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) contains a progestin called levonorgestrel (1.5 mg).

Store emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. Do not store it above 30°C and keep it out of reach of children.

Do not use ECP after the expiry date which is printed on the pack as “Expiry date”. The expiry date refers to the last day of month.

Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help to protect the environment.

The pack of Duly's emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) includes an outer sleeve with details about the medicine printed on the front and back.

The sleeve encloses within it a folded box, which carries a clear PVC/PE/PVDC-Alu blister with 1 tablet. Each sleeve/box carries 1 blister with 1 tablet inside.

The folded box has a QR code printed on the inside, which can be scanned for more information.

The following are a few common myths about emergency contraceptive pill (ECP)...

Depending on the woman's health profile and eligibility:

• If unprotected sex occurred within the last 72 hours (3 days), then an emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) is usually recommended.

• If unprotected sex occurred more than 72 hours (3 days) ago, then it is recommended to visit a doctor immediately to insert an intrauterine copper device (IUCD).

• If unprotected sex occurred more than 120 hours (5 days) ago, or if there is a possibility of pregnancy, then it is recommended to consult a doctor immediately, and conduct a pregnancy test to confirm the pregnancy status.

Reference: Guidelines for Administration of Emergency Contraceptive Pills by Health Care Providers, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, India